Meal Plan for a Runner - Short Distance / Sprinter

Short distance running are the sprinting events 400m and below. At these short distances muscular power and anaerobic metabolism come into play and there is no endurance element. Training as a short distance runner will involve weight training 3-4 times per week as well interval training along with sprint training. Leg strength is vital, as a good start off the blocks can make all the difference.

Sprinters usually carry a higher than average lean muscle mass, and power to weight ratio is very important. Following a meal plan like the one below will be ideal for a typical day's training, and carbohydrate loading pre-event is also advised in order to maximise the muscle and liver carbohydrate stores. Supplementation with the sports supplement creatine monohydrate may also be worth considering.

Here's a sample meal plan for a short distance runner to follow for a typical training day:

The above plan provides sufficient levels of all nutrients, however do bear in mind that the plan is merely a general guide, and there is no mention of portion sizes on purpose so that you can adapt it to suit yourself; remember men will generally require larger portions than women! Eat a variety of different meats/fish, complex carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables every day, and drink plenty of water. This plan is based around sustained slow released low glycaemic carbohydrates to help provide energy for exercise sessions. Oatcakes and granary bread will top up this slow released energy through the daytime. There is also a higher than normal intake of protein foods to help muscle size and strength.