Kenyan runner Mak Mansa has reportedly shared an embarrassing experience during the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, sparking conversations about an issue many long-distance runners know too well.
The incident, popularly described online as a “Code Brown,” involves losing control of bowel movements during a race. The medical term commonly associated with this problem is runner’s diarrhea, also known as “runner’s trots.”
Although the experience can be uncomfortable, exercise-related digestive problems are recognised among endurance athletes. They can affect both recreational runners and experienced competitors.
Why Runners Experience Digestive Problems
Long-distance running places considerable demands on the body. During intense exercise, blood flow shifts towards working muscles, potentially reducing circulation to the digestive system.
The repeated impact of running can also affect the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, stress, race-day anxiety, dehydration and certain foods may contribute to digestive discomfort. The exact causes vary between individuals.
Energy gels and sports drinks can also trigger symptoms in some runners, particularly when athletes consume products their bodies have not practised using during training.
A Challenge Beyond Kenyan Runners
Runner’s trots are not unique to Kenya or the Nairobi Marathon. Athletes participating in marathons and other endurance events have reported urgent bowel movements, stomach cramps and diarrhea.
Former world-record holder Paula Radcliffe also experienced a highly publicised stomach-related incident during the 2005 London Marathon. Despite stopping during the race, she continued and won the event.
Such experiences highlight the physical demands of endurance running, where digestive discomfort can disrupt even carefully planned performances.
How Runners Can Reduce the Risk
Although runners cannot eliminate every risk, preparation can help reduce the chances of digestive problems. Sports medicine experts recommend identifying foods that trigger symptoms and adjusting pre-race meals accordingly. Runners may benefit from limiting high-fibre and fatty foods shortly before competition. Athletes should also test energy gels and sports drinks during training rather than introducing unfamiliar products on race day. Eating at an appropriate time before running and maintaining adequate hydration may also help.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Occasional digestive discomfort during exercise may settle after activity. However, persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool or signs of dehydration require medical attention.
Mak Mansa’s reported experience has brought attention to an awkward but recognised challenge in endurance sports. It also highlights why marathon preparation involves more than building speed and stamina.
