No matter whether it’s a marathon, half-marathon or 10 Km race, runners should have sufficient rest prior to the event so they can relax and enjoy the race. As for diet, it is better not to drink wine in the lead up to the marathon, as that hinders the storage of vital glycogen. Runners should also avoid food that is fatty, high in fibre or spicy or meals that do not usually form part of their normal diet, so as to avoid digestive system discomfort. On race day, remember to have breakfast around 2 hours before the race so that the body has enough time for digestion and absorption of the energy the food provides.