32 Easy Snacks for Runners

Have you ever gone running and just felt you could have done better? Perhaps you had a run that started off strong but became a struggle to maintain, or maybe you felt exhausted and sore for days after a recent run. These situations are all too familiar, and the secret to avoiding them may lie in the right snacks for runners.

This analogy may be as old as the sport itself, but think of your body as a car and running snacks as fuel—without them, you won’t get very far! Snacks do so much more than just quiet a rumbling stomach. So, how can they help you, and what snacks are good for runners?

What are Good Snacks for Runners?

The best snacks for runners provide energy, improve performance, and speed up recovery. Snacks power you through your miles, keeping you from hitting that dreaded “wall” mid-run. They also repair and build muscles so you can lace up again sooner rather than later. So, should you binge on any goodies you can find before and after your run? Should you carry with you the first things you see in your pantry? Absolutely not. Choosing the best running snacks when gearing up for a run can be tricky, but it boils down to a few key things.

First, consider nutrient density. Are you getting the good stuff your body really needs? Then, there’s digestibility. Are the snacks easy on your stomach? And let’s not forget about convenience. Are the treats adding to the weight you’re carrying? The perfect snacks should have a nice balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, be easy to tuck into your gear, and definitely not leave you feeling queasy mid-run. High-carb snacks for runners are responsible for energy, protein for preparing your muscles for the workout, and healthy fats for that feeling of fullness.

That being so, there are several good snacks for runners before a race, as well as during and after. Below, we’ve listed 32 healthy snacks for a runner’s diet to help you out. Pro tip: Take it seriously, like you do with your training plan!

Pre-Run Snacks: Start Strong

1. Banana with Almond Butter

Bananas with almond butter are the dynamic duo you want in your pre-run snack rotation. Bananas, with their natural sweetness and quick-acting carbohydrates, get you revved up and ready. Pair them with almond butter, and you get protein and healthy fats that keep you satisfied without weighing you down.

2. Whole-Grain Toast with Honey

Whole-grain toast is a terrific source of slow-releasing carbs, giving you a sustained energy boost without the crazy sugar rush. And that drizzle of honey? The sweet touch complements the earthy whole grains, providing a quick dash of natural sugars. This combo isn’t just about energy; it’s also about savoring a sweet, satisfying bite.

3. Greek Yogurt with Granola

Imagine a tasty blend of creamy, protein-packed yogurt topped with a crunchy granola mix—a texture match made in heaven! The yogurt offers a generous amount of protein to help keep your muscles fueled and ready, while the granola adds just the right amount of carbs for that energizing boost.

4. Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter

Rice cakes are light yet incredibly satisfying, guaranteeing the perfect crunchy base that pairs effortlessly with peanut butter’s rich, nutty flavor. Rice cakes are low in calories but high in volume, meaning they’ll fill you up without the heaviness. Smear on peanut butter for a healthy dose of protein and fats.

5. Energy Bars (Low in Fiber)

Energy bars for runners (before the actual run) should be low in fiber. Why? Too much fiber can sometimes cause discomfort during a run, and you want to avoid that. These energy bars should simply provide you that quick energy spike you need through their substantial carbohydrate content.

6. Oatmeal with Chopped Fruits

If you have time before a run, oatmeal with chopped fruits is a great option. Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate and takes longer to digest, providing sustained energy during your run. Adding some chopped fruits like bananas or berries adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients.

7. Hard-Boiled Eggs with a Slice of Toast

When it comes to high-protein snacks for runners, hard-boiled eggs are a classic choice—the perfect source of protein and healthy fats. Pairing them with a slice of toast adds some extra carbohydrates to fuel your muscles. Just don’t go overboard on the toppings!

8. Smoothie with Banana and Protein Powder

Who doesn’t love a good smoothie? Try blending a banana with your favorite protein powder, a splash of milk (or a dairy-free alternative), and maybe throw in a handful of spinach if you’re feeling adventurous. This concoction not only gets you pumped for your run but also takes over repairs of your muscles afterward.

9. Dates with Almonds

Dates and almonds are little powerhouses and a delightful combination of natural sugars and healthy fats. Dates are incredibly sweet and give a burst of energy, while almonds contribute essential fats and proteins. Munching on these two ingredients requires no fuss. Just grab them and go!

10. Fresh Fruit (Apples, Oranges, or Berries)

Did somebody say healthy snacks for runners? Fruits are an obvious choice, but make sure they’re fresh, and focus on apples, oranges, or berries. These three provide simple carbohydrates for a quick, efficient energy boost. Apples are crunchy, oranges are juicy, and berries are sweet. All are delicious, and they hydrate you just enough.

11. Trail Mix (Avoid Heavy Additions)

Trail mix is an excellent go-to for pre-run munching, offering a balanced blend of nuts, seeds, and a touch of sweetness—maybe some dried fruits or a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for good measure. Just a heads up, though: steer clear of the heavier additions like extra chocolate chunks or yogurt-covered bits.

12. Nut Butter Packet with a Banana

A nut butter packet with a banana is insanely convenient—just tear open the packet and spread or dip. You get the nutritional punch you need with a healthy dose of potassium that helps you steer clear of cramps. A nice dash of protein and healthy fats will also satiate you.

During-Run Snacks: Maintain Your Momentum

13. Energy Gels and Chews

Moving on to snacks for runners during a race, we have energy gels. They have quick-release carbs; take one with water when you’re starting to fade, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your engines roar back to life. Moreover, chews are like gummy bears for grown-ups—let their sweet, energizing magic keep you going.

14. Dried Mango or Raisins

Dried mango or raisins will help you when you start to feel the miles. Sweet and chewy mangoes are good carb snacks for runners, while raisins are a classic yet powerful source of energy for a pick-me-up. They each have a healthy dose of natural sugars for those last few kilometers, too.

15. Electrolyte Gummies or Hydration Tablets

Of course, hydration is critical when running. So, snacks for long-distance runners should include electrolyte gummies or hydration tablets. Think of them as your tiny portable oasis that rebalances those all-important electrolytes that sweat so cruelly steals away. Just pop a gummy or drop a tablet into your water.

16. Pretzels with Nut Butter

Want a snack that’s both crunchy and satisfying? Pretzels with nut butter! Give yourself a good combo of salty and creamy. The nut butter provides a hefty dose of protein and healthy fats, fueling your muscles and never making you feel hungry.

17. Trail Mix with Electrolyte-Rich Nuts

Remember the trail mix you had before your run? Bring some more of that along, but add more electrolyte-rich nuts. Walnuts, almonds, and cashews provide healthy fats and protein for sustained energy and contain electrolytes like potassium. These minerals maintain proper hydration and muscle function.

18. Fruit Leather

Have you ever had a fruit craving mid-run? Enter fruit leather. It’s your favorite fruit but condensed into a chewy, portable strip that can fit right in your pocket. Natural sugars and vitamins? You don’t have to leave them behind when you’re out for a run!

19. Crackers with Peanut Butter

Snacks for cross-country runners may not include crackers with peanut butter, but marathoners or other long-distance runners will appreciate this energy-boosting snack. Pack yours in a small resealable bag for a quick nibble while running and replenish your body with protein and carbs.

20. Gummy Bears or Jelly Beans

If you need a sugar rush, trust gummy bears or jelly beans to give you a burst of energy. They might not be the most traditional energy boost, but sometimes, you need some sugary motivation to keep going. Their small size means they’re super easy to carry along, and, let’s be honest, they’re really fun to eat.

21. Coconut Water Packets

Coconut water packets are tiny hydration miracles you can tuck into your running belt or pocket. They’re ultra-convenient and refreshing without the need for bulky bottles or stops at water stations. Sip on the slightly sweet, tropical flavor halfway through your run—that’s not just rejuvenation, that’s a mini-vacation!

22. Granola Clusters

Granola clusters are little bites of joy, containing oats, nuts, and sometimes a touch of honey or chocolate—the perfect blend of crunch and sweetness. Toss a handful into your pocket, and you have an easy-to-nibble snack that won’t slow you down. You can make these goodies before your run and customize them to your liking.

Post-Run Snacks: Refuel and Recover

23. Greek Yogurt with Berries and Honey

The best snacks for runners after a run promote recovery and reload nutrients. Greek yogurt with berries and honey is an excellent example. Greek yogurt is high in protein, and berries and honey add sweetness and a boost of antioxidants. When you’ve completed your run, you deserve a tasty and nutritious reward!

24. Chocolate Milk

Believe it or not, chocolate milk is an ideal post-run snack for runners. This beverage refills electrolytes, protein, carbs, and vitamins you’ve lost during your run. Moreover, a cup helps cool the body! Some athletes prefer chocolate milk over food post-workout, so if you’re not feeling particularly hungry, go ahead and indulge in a glass.

25. Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate and Dried Fruit

Trail mix just never gets old. For post-run recovery, add some dark chocolate and dried fruit for antioxidants and natural sugars. The combination of salty nuts, sweet fruit, and indulgent chocolate makes this trail mix the best for satisfying cravings. Lie down and rest with a handful or two of these energizing treats.

26. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

If you have enough strength to make a sandwich, go for peanut butter and jelly. It’s rich in healthy carbs, protein, and the nostalgic taste of childhood. The fusion of nut butter and fruit spread works for energy stores, muscle repair, and the immune system.

27. Protein Smoothie with Spinach and Banana

As a post-workout snack, spinach and bananas in your smoothie are a source of iron and potassium, carrying oxygen throughout your body for energy production and muscle function. Alternatively, you can blend some frozen fruits with protein powder, almond milk, and greens.

28. Hard-Boiled Eggs with Avocado Toast

We’re back with hard-boiled eggs and have avocado toast to go with them this time. The eggs serve the necessary amino acids for muscle repair, while avocados have heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber to fill and satisfy you. Don’t feel guilty if you just want to binge on these snacks for their irresistible flavors!

29. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Cottage cheese is all about proteins that carry those tired muscles, while the pineapple promises a refreshing burst of sweetness and a dose of vitamin C. All the natural sugars can give you a quick energy lift, too. This snack is also super easy to throw together.

30. Hummus with Whole-Grain Crackers

There’s something undeniably gratifying about dipping whole-grain crackers into a creamy bowl of hummus. Not only does it make for a delightful crunch, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. Hummus, typically made from chickpeas, has a good dose of plant-based protein and healthy fats, too.

31. Edamame

Boil or steam a handful of edamame, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top (or any spice you fancy), and have a tasty and nutritious bite. Seriously, these legumes are like little green powerhouses that your body will thank you for after those intense miles. Give edamame a try!

32. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter and Strawberries

You don’t need to buy packaged snacks for runners. Sometimes, what you had before your workout may work for after. It’s really about being creative in the kitchen and making the most of what you have. For example, your extra rice cakes can have a spread of nut butter and sliced strawberries on top!

Snack Smart, Step Confidently with KURU

Fueling your body with the right snacks is essential to running longer, recovering faster, and enjoying every mile. Whether you're gearing up with carbs, replenishing with electrolytes mid-run, or focusing on post-run recovery with protein, proper nutrition keeps you at your best. It doesn’t have to be complicated—choose easy-to-carry snacks rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, and don’t forget to hydrate!

Once you’ve dialed in your nutrition, the right shoes become your next essential. At KURU Footwear, we design shoes for active lifestyles, delivering unmatched comfort with patented technologies like KURUSOLE, which hugs your heels to reduce pain and improve support, and ULTIMATE INSOLES that adapt to your foot's shape for a customized fit.

Wearing well-cushioned, supportive running shoes can elevate performance, protect against injuries like shin splints, and enhance recovery by reducing muscle fatigue and joint stress. The better your feet feel, the easier it is to focus on the miles ahead—and the snacks waiting for you afterward.

Fuel smart, run happy, and step confidently with KURU—because every mile counts, and so does every step.

About Us

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