answered by nasru (a multiple marathoner who have completed 42 marathons( and counting). nasru’s experience and dedication for the running profession is second to none! he holds the record for the most marathons runs by a Maldivian including a record of running 13 full marathons in a calendar year (2018). we asked nasru the classic 5 questions that all our readers so anxiously read for tips and advice. below are the answer’s from the man himself;

Q1. what do you eat 24 hours before your race?

if event is morning the night before: pasta

i wake up before 5 hours of event and have bread and crumpy

Q2. what do you use during your races to fuel your body?

during run i drink water at all points make sure i am hydrated. every 45 mins i use GU energy gel.

Q3. how much should i drink during the race?

during run at each point drink around 500ml water

Q4. what’s your best advice for the times during a race when you are at your lowest?

first thing is to decide a pace and that pace should be one that he or she has applied during practice. this is goal setting. many people find it difficult to maintain pace at the start and go too fast at beginning. but always try to control the pace. it will show benefits after u reach 30km. if pace is not controlled at start it will make it difficult for you when you reach 30km. even if u cant run to pace dont give up hope and try to maintain pace for the rest of the kilometere left. after 30km it wud be mentally and physically exhausting but try to keep yourself hydrated. most importantly dont pour water on your head and shoes. if you feel like you are feeling (akuni vayah dhemun) after 30 km dont increase your pace and maintain pace. if it is still not working slow down the speed. when slowing try to find a pace that stops it . do not sit down at all during this and walk for a while till it gets better and try to increase pace and maintain it.

Q5. what is your advice for the next 24 hours soon after a race?

after race drink plenty water till urine is colourless completely. eat protein rich food such as chicken and fish.
i would like to add one more. before 5 days of race if running full marathon drink ORS packet for each day for 5 days. during these 5 days drink kurumbaa (coconut water) fen each day.
when its 2 days to event do not eat protein rich food.