Tag: Coke for runners

Over the years, numerous endurance athletes, from Ironman triathletes to ultra-marathoners, have famously used Coke during the final stages of races to gain a psychological and physical edge. But beyond the anecdotes, is Coke good for runners, and does it hold up to scientific scrutiny as a viable race-day fuel option?

With a high sugar and caffeine content, Coca-Cola is a surprising but common sight at ultra marathon aid stations. Many seasoned ultra runners swear by a cup of cold cola in the later stages of a race, when typical sports nutrition becomes unpalatable or their bodies can no longer properly digest solid foods.