I do not drink any alcohol, but that was a decision i made prior to ultrarunning. 

Actually I know a few former alcoholics or whatever they'd call themselves that traded one over-indulgence for another (ultrarunning).

Aside from that, though, I think its an "all in moderation" thing.  I'll periodically have a couple glasses of wine, or a mixed drink with dinner - and run great the next day.  On the flip side, one time; when I knew I was going to lose my job and was sole supporter for a family of four - I overindulged and got mildly drunk.   The next day, I did not feel like running.  2 days later I ran as normal.  But... I didn't make that sort of behavior a habit.

From a medical standpoint if you're a guy and drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages a day (2 for women) the health risks out weigh any neutral or beneficial effects.  Those limits are what I would define as "moderation."

Problem drinkers can come from every facet of society and the ultra running community is probably not an exception. I've noticed that problem drinkers tend to find each other and hang around in groups so that their habits appear to be "normal" behavior within the group.

KateMD

[http://This message has been edited by kateMD (edited Jul-06-2007).|http://This message has been edited by kateMD (edited Jul-06-2007).]

snail, I have never seen any runner slam down 3,4,5 beers after an ultra. I think most would be vomiting if they did that.

KateMD says that problem drinkers tend to hang out with each other to look and feel normal. You said your ultra buddies seem to drink to much. If what she says is true does that leave you with a guilty conscious? ie. are you worried about your own drinking habits?

I get your question.

It would be hard for me to generalize about the entire ultrarunning scene as I've only seen a small bit. (Less than a dozen ultras under my belt.)

In my experience, I do okay having a beer or two the night before a race. Actually, its part of my routine. Same goes for a marathon race too. Its mostly in a social setting and after all the gear is in place. The nightcap helps me sleep as I am normally very amped up for a big ultra event. Looking back, I probably have more drinks the night before a run than afterwards.

FWIW, If the only choice were coors or miler light then I probably would not drink.

A couple of StPauli girl beers is ok after a run!
no really, I drank more, well not a lot, but I used to enjoy drinking but I found that when I started doing more miles per week and eating well I didnt enjoy drinking that much anymore, it is like I feel more in tune with my body and it just likes good stuff now. I still like a beer or some good wine now and again but one is about my limit. It really wasnt a decision I made it is just that I think my body changed when I started running a lot more. Even caffeine affects me way more (sweet during a long race!) But after a long hot humid run a beer is awesome. But just one, after that its not enjoyable as much.

Mr. Snail, me thinks you are in denial...............Please get help for your overindulgence in alcoholic beverages. First step is admitting you have a problem. ie. getting through your denial.