In 2005, internationally famous British marathoner Paula Radcliffe set a world record during the London Marathon. Notably, she set this record during a race in which she also had to answer the call of nature. Partway through the marathon, she stopped and had a bowel movement by the side of the race course. Many distance runners can sympathize, as bowel problems are common when running.
Causes
Nearly 20 percent of runners experience bowel changes during a marathon that affect their race performances. These bowel changes may be caused by blood flow alterations that happen during intense runs. Your large muscles demand oxygenated blood when you run, and your body will shunt blood away from your stomach and intestines. In addition, some runners alter their food choices during marathon training, which may also influence their bowel movement frequency and consistency.
Symptoms
Loose stools and more frequent bowel movements are the most common changes in defecation for distance runners. Some runners note blood in their stools, which could be from the jostling of their intestines over many miles. Never assume that bloody stools are normal. They could be sign of more serious health problems, and you should see your doctor.
Relief
Fortunately for marathon runners, portable restrooms are as ubiquitous on a race course as water stations. Few runners are elite enough to justify defecating along the route in public. Consider planning your training runs in neighborhoods where you can access public restrooms as needed.
Planning
Training for a distance race involves much more than acclimating your heart, lungs and joints to running a certain number of miles. All of your body systems need to adjust to the demands that you will place on them. Try to mimic race circumstances on your training runs and avoid adjusting your routine right before a race.
Eat the foods that you know sit well, drink the same amount and temperature of water as usual and do not experiment with new sports drinks or gels on the day of the race. Know that as you increase your effort during a race, you may have increased gastrointestinal symptoms. If you do, you are in the company of world champion athletes.
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