As a result, one of the keys to McKee's success would have been minimising and managing the symptoms of fatigue during each run and throughout each day. McKee would have been battling the effects of significant fatigue in both the muscles and nervous system, making recovery essential in order to limit the physical and mental effects, such as muscle soreness and emotional exhaustion. If fatigue wasn't properly managed, it would have made it harder for him to complete his challenge. Fortunately, fatigue can be managed with proper nutrition. McKee would have needed to consume roughly 5,000 calories a day in order to supply the energy needed to recover properly ?" roughly the equivalent of 20 plates of pasta. He would have needed a good balance of carbohydrates, fat and protein to fuel each daily run and to help repair his muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones afterwards. McKee also avoided alcohol for the year as it can impair sleep and recovery and reduce performance.