Planning the Pre-Race Meal

I wait all year for the excitement in my hometown to crescendo around the TCS NYC Marathon and it’s evident everywhere I look.

Street banners, bus and subway ads and the TCS NYC Marathon Pavilion at Tavern on the Green!! It’s only a matter of time before the statue of Fred Lebow (founder of the race) gets moved to the finish line so he can continue to watch all of the runners as we cross the finish line.

And what’s on my mind?

Eating.

Eating is always on my mind but never more than this time of year.

This week, I need to keep in mind that even though I’m not running as much as I have been, I need to keep my caloric intake at roughly the same level. It’s okay to drop it a little, but now is the time to pack some carbs into your diet. I add about 20% more carbs to my daily intake.

And it’s time to start making plans for where to have that last meal the night before the race. This is NYC and there are a million corner Italian restaurants as well as nationally-known restaurants if that is more your speed.

I’ve partnered with Applebee’s this year to bring some awareness to its Pastathon the on 11/3 where you (as a registered runner) and your friends (up to 6!) can sign up to for the midtown restaurant (205 W. 50th St.) for a FREE bowl of one of its new pastas served with a signature breadstick. Reserve your spot here http://ms.spr.ly/6014r7I4s.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Pasta menu starts at $11.99 and features five pasta dishes. All pasta items come with a delicious Signature Breadstick, brushed with garlic and parsley: