LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Marathon weekend is upon us, we're verifying what a local marathoner calls "the five biggest running myths."
Gary Taylor owns Go Running!, a runner's shop in the Heights, and he’s been an active runner since age 13.
First, most runners carb load the night before a big race or have a big pasta party on the eve of a long run. Taylor said it is unnecessary -- if you’re waiting till the night before to eat your carbs, you’re too late. Eating carbs need to be done in the days leading up to the race. The night before, he recommends a light dinner with some protein.
Second, you may hear running can ruin your knees. Taylor said that for some people, it can, but only if they have poor form. In fact, he said running can actually strengthen your knees.
Third, stretching before a run: Yes or no? Taylor said It’s better to walk around for a few minutes, get your blood and body moving, do a little light stretching and then you’re good to go. Stretching after a run is actually better for you, so your muscles don’t tighten.
Fourth, the weather this weekend is going to be pretty gross, and we constantly hear that running in the cold will make you sick. Taylor said that's not true, but he did say to be sensible and dress appropriately. The cold won’t make you sick.
And finally, everyone thinks they need to hydrate with a sports drink to compensate for the sodium lost during a run. He said it's better to have water and maybe add sodium to it, or a salt supplement or other type of powder. That, he said, is better than a sugary energy drink.