Running on Real Food with Ballston Run Club
Last week, Area 2 Farms traded in their farm boots for running shoes to bring some fresh energy to the Ballston Run Club. Based in Arlington, Area 2 Farms grows organic produce year-round, and showed up with a mission: to share how local food can fuel performance, support recovery, and build stronger communities.
A Good Run Starts with Good Food
Eating local isn’t just about where your food comes from — it’s about how it makes you feel, too. Nutrient-dense vegetables, fresh-picked greens, and whole ingredients help runners stay energized and recover faster. Because it's picked at its peak, local produce often retains more nutrients than food that travels long distances, making those essential vitamins and minerals more readily available for your body.
If you’re looking to integrate more local, whole foods into your running routine and recovery, try these easy tips:
Fuel Up With Root Veggies: Roots like carrots, sweet potatoes, and turnips make great pre-run fuel — they’re packed with complex carbs that release energy steadily. Roast them ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go snack.
Hydrate More Efficiently: Up to 30% of your daily hydration can come from food—and veggies like lettuce, celery, and radishes are especially good at delivering both water and essential minerals. Fresh herbs like mint and basil can also make water more refreshing and flavorful—turning hydration into something you’ll actually look forward to.
Boost Recovery with Greens: Dark, leafy greens like kale and chard deliver iron and calcium, which support blood flow, hydration, and muscle repair. Try adding them fresh to salads, blending into smoothies, or lightly sautéing for a nutrient-packed side.
Don’t Skip the Micros: Microgreens offer big benefits in a small package, helping to combat fatigue and muscle stress — and they’re easy to sprinkle on any meal. Try them in pesto or top your next stir fry with a handful!
About Ballston Run Club
Ballston Run Club meets every Tuesday at 6:30 PM at PR Running + Walking (4238 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA). The club welcomes runners of all paces, and each week members vote on the route for their run. Meetups begin with a group stretch, followed by the run, and finish with a cool down and hangout—making it a great way to connect, unwind, and celebrate progress together.
Be sure to follow Ballston Run Club for updates on weekly running routes and other fun news from the community.
If you’re ready to fuel your own run and recovery with locally grown produce, try Area 2 Farms’ weekly harvests. Discover the taste of community-grown nutrition and feel the difference in every step.
