In my experience running hundreds of races—including 30 marathons—over more than three decades, I’ve tried just about every possible way to avoid taking a Gatorade bath. The most successful method involves a finger hook and pinch of the cup. To prove that, we tested the “pinch” method against other techniques.
Update: When shooting this video, test editor Amanda Furrer said she didn’t think this method was any better than how she’d previously grabbed water in a race. A week later, as she blew past me on the Boston Marathon course, I watched her grab three cups—all using the pinch! She fessed up later that, yes, it is in fact a superior method.
You Also Might Like
RW+ Exclusive: The Best Way to Pace a Marathon
We break down the 10-10-10 strategy that will help you avoid the dreaded “wall” in your next marathon.
RW+ Exclusive: A Tip for Long Run Success
Watch deputy test editor Jeff Dengate explain how he set up an 18-miler that he knew was going to be difficult.
RW+ Exclusive: How to Jumpstart Recovery After a Marathon
Instead of hitting the couch, try going for an easy jog. Here’s how.
Jeff is Runner-in-Chief for Runner's World, guiding the brand's shoes and gear coverage. A true shoe dog, he's spent more than a decade testing and reviewing shoes. In 2017, he ran in 285 different pairs of shoes, including a streak of 257 days wearing a different model.
