Fuel Smarter. Go Further.
You’ve trained hard. Now it’s time to make sure your fueling is just as solid as your training plan. Whether it’s your first marathon or your fiftieth, the 2025 AACR Philadelphia Marathon isn’t getting any shorter—and we’re here to help you fuel.
As the official on-course nutrition partner, XACT is here to help you fuel with confidence—before, during, and after your race. Here’s your complete guide.
48–72 Hours Before the Race: Carb Prep
You’re tapering your training, but not your fueling. The final 2–3 days before the marathon are about topping up glycogen stores.
- Increase your carbohydrate intake at every meal
- Prioritize total carbohydrate intake
Night Before: Keep It Familiar
Dinner the night before your race is not the time to experiment. Keep it simple and easy to digest.
- A carb-dominant meal (e.g., white pasta with light sauce, rice with chicken, or breakfast-style oats and maple syrup)
- A small dessert or an XACT ENERGY bar 60–90 minutes after dinner if you’re hungry
- Avoid heavy fats, excess vegetables, or spicy dishes
- Hydrate early in the day to avoid waking up at night
Race Morning: Fuel Up Early
Eat breakfast 3 to 4 hours before the race start, and make it similar to what you’ve used in long training runs.
- A plain bagel with jam
- Oatmeal with banana and honey
- Pancakes with maple syrup
- Optional: A small coffee if you’re used to it
30–45 minutes before the start, top up with 1 XACT ENERGY bar. Wash it down with water.
Race Day Fueling: Stay Ahead of Bonking
Your fueling window opens around 45–50 minutes into your race. Keep it consistent from there.
| Time | Fuel Plan |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | Breakfast 3–4 hrs prior, 1 XACT bar 30–45 min before start |
| 45–50 min | First XACT ENERGY bar |
| Every 45–50 min | One additional bar |
| Every 10–15 min | Sip water or electrolyte drink (500–1000 ml/hr) |
Important: The first on-course fueling station is after Mile 11—that’s likely too late for your first carbs. Carry 1–2 bars to cover the early miles.
Where to Find XACT on Course
AACR Philadelphia Marathon (Sunday, Nov 23, 2025):
- Past Mile 11
- Before Mile 18
- Past Mile 22
- Flavors: Orange, Apricot, Strawberry, Apple
Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon (Saturday, Nov 22, 2025):
- Just before Mile 8
- Flavors: Orange, Apricot, Strawberry
Course maps and station layouts are subject to change. Confirm final details via the official Philadelphia Marathon site.
Why XACT ENERGY?
XACT ENERGY is inspired by traditional French pâte de fruits—a fruit-based bar that’s soft, juicy, and melts in your mouth.
- 25 g of carbs
- Real fruit, no fake dyes or preservatives
- Free of Priority Allergens
- Compact size – perfect for pockets, vests, or handhelds
- Blackcurrant and Lemon (available at the expo) – each with 50 mg of caffeine for a welcomed boost
Post-Race Recovery: Rebuild and Rehydrate
You’ve crossed the finish line—congrats. But your body still needs you.
- Within 30–60 minutes, consume carbs + protein to replenish and recover
- Try chocolate milk, recovery shake, sandwich, or protein bar
- Check out our high-protein chocolate wafers—on sale at the expo
- If you’re not hungry, go for a drinkable option
What to Carry on Race Day
- 1–2 XACT ENERGY bars for early miles (before Mile 11)
- Optional: 1 caffeinated bar (Blackcurrant) for the second half
- Hydration tablets or drink mix for handheld bottle
Visit Us at the Expo
Get your hands on samples, advice, and race-day fuel bundles.
- Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center
- Booth: #114
-
When:
- Friday, Nov 21, 2025: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Saturday, Nov 22, 2025: 9 AM – 5 PM
We’ll help you:
- Get personalized advice
- Try all our flavors (including expo-only Blackcurrant and Lemon)
- Stock up on bundles for race day
Final Checklist
- Carb-focused meals 2–3 days before — keep it simple and familiar
- Early breakfast on race day — carbs are your priority
- 1 XACT bar 15–20 minutes before the start
- Fuel every 30–45 minutes (increase frequency for higher intensity)
- Carry your own fuel for between aid stations
- Recover post-race with carbs and protein
- Hydrate well all weekend
- Stick to what you’ve practiced — no last-minute changes
We’ll See You in Philly
Fueling is one of the most powerful tools you have on race day. Plan ahead, practice what works, and trust real food. We’ll be on the course with you—every step of the way.