What to Eat Before the Tokyo Marathon (And What to Save for After)
One of the questions I worried about most before the Tokyo Marathon had nothing to do with pacing, weather, or transportation.
It was food.
Not because Tokyo lacks incredible food—quite the opposite.
The challenge is figuring out what to eat when you're trying to stick with familiar, race-friendly nutrition in one of the world's great culinary cities.
After running Tokyo this year, here's what worked for me.
Udon Is Your Friend
If you're looking for a pre-race meal, it's hard to go wrong with udon.
The noodles are simple, familiar, easy to digest, and widely available throughout Tokyo. Whether you're eating in a small neighborhood restaurant or a larger chain, you'll find plenty of options that are satisfying without being overly rich or adventurous.
What I particularly liked was that udon provides a nice combination of carbohydrates and sodium. Most runners focus on the carbs, but the salty broth can also help you top off your sodium stores before race day.
By race week, your goal isn't culinary exploration.
Your goal is arriving at the start line feeling good.
Don't Underestimate 7-Eleven
Or FamilyMart.
Japan's convenience stores are on a completely different level than what many visitors are used to.
My race-week staples included:
Onigiri (rice balls)
Egg salad sandwiches
Sports drinks
Bananas
Simple snacks
The rice balls are an easy source of carbohydrates, while the famous egg salad sandwiches provide a bit of protein to round things out.
The egg salad sandwiches in particular have developed something of a cult following among travelers—and after trying them, I understand why. They're inexpensive, convenient, surprisingly tasty, and available virtually everywhere.
When you're jet-lagged, trying to navigate a foreign city, and don't want to spend twenty minutes deciphering a menu, that's a beautiful thing.
Save the Sushi for After the Race
This might be controversial.
Can you eat sushi before a marathon?
Of course.
Should you?
Personally, I'd wait.
Race week isn't the time to experiment with foods your stomach isn't accustomed to, no matter how tempting they may be.
Tokyo has some of the best sushi in the world. It will still be there after you finish.
In fact, I would argue it tastes even better when it's part of a celebration meal after you've earned your medal.
Simplicity Wins
One of the biggest lessons I learned is that race-week nutrition doesn't need to be perfect.
You're not trying to maximize every gram of carbohydrate.
You're trying to avoid problems.
Simple, familiar foods are usually your best friend.
The marathon itself is enough of an adventure.
Your digestive system doesn't need one too.
Final Thoughts
One of the joys of running destination races is experiencing a new city and culture.
Just remember that there will be plenty of time to enjoy Tokyo's incredible food scene after you've crossed the finish line.
For race week?
Give me a bowl of udon, a couple of rice balls, and a convenience-store egg salad sandwich.
The sushi can wait until I've got a medal around my neck.