Romance doesn’t have to derail your race preparation! As a couple preparing for the Spartan Race on February 15th, you can enjoy a delightful Valentine’s celebration while staying on track with your pre-race nutrition.
The Perfect Pre-Race Valentine’s Dinner
The Herb Box in Scottsdale offers an elegant $60 per person Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu that aligns wonderfully with pre-race nutrition needs. Here are the best options that combine romance with race preparation:
First Course Options:
- Baby Gem Salad with pomegranate and lemon vinaigrette – perfect for light hydration and nutrients
- Mezze Board featuring hummus and grilled pita – provides balanced carbohydrates
Main Course Recommendation:
- Roasted Apple Cider Glazed Chicken with buttermilk-chive mashed potatoes – offers an ideal combination of lean protein and complex carbohydrates
Pre-Race Nutrition Guidelines
For optimal race performance, follow these nutritional strategies:
Week Before:
- Focus on clean eating with fresh foods and natural ingredients
- Include plenty of lean proteins and complex carbohydrates
- Stay well-hydrated with water-rich foods like tomatoes and cucumbers
Night Before:
- Avoid alcohol and heavy, fatty foods
- Choose a meal high in carbohydrates but moderate in protein
- Aim to eat dinner at least 3 hours before bedtime
Race Morning:
- Eat breakfast 2-3 hours before race time
- Choose familiar, easily digestible foods
- Target 400-600 calories of mostly carbohydrates
Sample Race Morning Breakfast
After your romantic dinner, prepare for race day with these breakfast options:
- Oatmeal with banana and almond butter
- Greek yogurt with oats, berries, and nuts
- Whole wheat bagel with egg or nut butter
Tips for Success
Timing Your Valentine’s Dinner:
- Make an early reservation to ensure proper digestion time
- Stay hydrated throughout the evening
- Skip the dessert course if it’s too close to bedtime
Race Preparation:
- Pack your race gear and nutrition the night before
- Set out your breakfast ingredients
- Plan to get adequate sleep despite the festivities
Remember, celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean sacrificing your race performance. With proper planning and smart menu choices, you can enjoy both a romantic evening and a successful Spartan Race the next day.
