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Marathon

Thu, May 28, 2009 6:10 PM

Has anybody here ever ran a marathon with UC or Crohns? I am training for my first and wondering if anybody has any tips. I am currently at 16 miles in my runs and doing fine with an occasional upset belly but I am desperatly seeking some kind of energy source that doesn't mess with me afterwards. I don't tolerate gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, or nuts so it has been kind of difficult. Running has definitly done wonders for my UC and my mentality. Anyone with stories to tell or tips? I can't find anything on the internet about people with IBD running marathons. I can't be the only one.

Arrow6
Joined Jan 9, 2020

Mon, September 28, 2009 10:34 PM

Reply posted for dbmontana.

I know this is a little late for a response but I thought I'd let you know I trained for a marathon all summer and ran a 1/2 marathon yesterday. I did just fine no diarrea. I take 1/2 - 1 immodium when I am feeling a flare up coming on. I don't know if this is safe for you or not, you might ask your doctor. Also, I eat a banana before a long run and light carbs like toast or a roll rather than anything with a lot of protein or fiber. Oatmeal seems OK to me too. Those gel things like GU or Hammergel work for me when on the trail. My problem now is joint pain afterwards. Is it a warning sign or just normal after effects of heavy activity?

lablover
Joined Jul 3, 2009

Sun, June 07, 2009 3:16 PM

Reply posted for dbmontana.

I have done several marathons, 1/2 and other distances. I was recently diagnosed but does not mean all the symptoms were not always there.

I used little power gels when I started and every 5 miles. If you cannot tolerate that, packs of honey or little snacks (like raisins) are good when you are actually running. I drink boost or something like that for breakfast. I can't eat too much or I will have the running trots... no fun.. Make sure you carb load even when you are training. You will need everything just to make the once a week long runs. If you try something new, do it while you are training.

If you have any other questions, I will be happy to help. Just remember pain is just your mind telling you that you are crazy...

aliciacole88
Joined Jun 2, 2009

Thu, June 04, 2009 12:00 AM

Reply posted for dbmontana.

I was diagnosed with UC about six months ago (age 33), with symptoms starting about 19 months ago. I am now in my 2nd week of training for an Olympic distance triathlon in September. There are definitely issues with diet and fatigue (surprise!!) but I'm not going to let this stupid IBD nonsense keep me from living my life. Training for a tri in the middle of a flare isn't ideal, but what can you do?

I can't wait to hear about your training and progress--it's comforting to see other people out there getting on with their lives in spite of an IBD diagnosis!

mmmqq
Joined Jun 4, 2009

Tue, June 02, 2009 10:49 PM

Reply posted for dbmontana.

I want to do a tri-adventure next year. 36 mi bike ride, 5 mi canoe 1/2 mi portage with canoe, and approx 5 mi hike with 20% of body weight. This year I had to volunteer because I was recently in the hospital. Next year I will be ready.

The only advise I have is listen closely to your body. I know I can get a flare if I get to run down.

I have seen other postings here about others training for marathons.

You training for a marathon is really inspiring to me. Please keep us posted and good luck!

elle
Joined Sep 19, 2008

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