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5 Best Running Gels & Fuel to Help Sustain Energy

Posted by Chris Manus on

Running can often feel tiring, but not having the right type of nutrition before and after could be slowing down your progress. Whether you’re just starting with running or working on improving speed, this post will explore 5 options that provide sustained energy throughout every run. 

1. Clif Bar Clif Shot Energy Gel

Clif Bar is widely recognized as a leading producer of high-quality energy gels, bars, and other sports nutrition products. Their Clif Shot energy gels are a massive hit among runners because they are convenient and effective. With 24 individual packets and 1.2 ounces of gel in each, this set will last for quite some time. Strawberry, Citrus, Mocha, and Chocolate Cherry are just some of the many available flavors of Clif Bar. Because it contains 25 milligrams of caffeine, it will give you an immediate jolt of energy.

2. GU Multipack Energy Gels

Each sachet of these multisport energy gels contains 100 calories and crucial electrolytes, making them perfect for runners. It provides a combination of maltodextrin and fructose, two sugars that the body can use efficiently and for an extended period of time. You can consume a gel up to 45 minutes before the start of the race and every 5 minutes thereafter. Since every runner is different, you might need to consume gels less frequently. Vanilla Bean, Salted Caramel, Caramel Macchiato, and Chocolate Outrage are just some of the artisan coffee shop flavors in their completely vegan and gluten-free selection.


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3. Myprotein Pre-Workout Gel 

While protein powders and creatine are popular among serious gym rats, there are many options for runners as well. This pre-workout gel is convenient because you can eat it right out of the sachet. The 200 grams of caffeine in this supplement, along with the other pre-workout ingredients, will give you the energy boost you need to crush your workout. Also, despite the name, this gel can be consumed both before and during strenuous physical activity. Myprotein offers its product in two unique, out-of-the-ordinary tastes: Tropical and Berry Blast.

person running outside

 

4. Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel

This American company produces honey-based supplements meant to serve as powerful energy boosters during physical activity. They have an extensive gel range in addition to waffles, energy chews, and nutritional bars. Their organic gels are made with real honey and a proprietary blend of water, potassium citrate, vitamins, and other energy-boosting ingredients to ensure rapid absorption of the 24g of carbohydrates contained in each packet. Fruit Smoothies, Acai Pomegranate, and Strawberry Kiwi are some of the flavors available.


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5. Maurten Gel 100

The Maurten Gel 100 is a no-frills energy gel for professional athletes and is among the best in the world. While its bland flavor and creamy consistency may not appeal to every palate, its efficacy is assured. The gel, which was used by Eliud Kipchoge when he set the world record at the Berlin Marathon, avoids the stomach and goes directly to the small intestine, reducing the likelihood of stomach or intestinal problems. Each 40g gel contains 25g of carbs, giving you a significant energy boost.

Energy Gel: What Is It?

Now more than ever, people in the sporting world are using energy gels. They are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, but their intended use is to provide energy during long workouts. But, what is an energy gel? Energy gels, which are high in carbs that provide instant energy, are useful for restocking glycogen stores. They achieve this by spiking your blood sugar, which is extremely useful when running for extended periods of time. That's why the best running gels can have such a dramatic effect on efficiency. Energy gels are formulated for adults (so keep them out of the reach of kids) and are composed of a variety of sugars such as maltodextrin and fructose. It's best to take them a few minutes before you actually feel like you need the extra boost they provide. During long-duration activities like running, gel packets are convenient because of their small size and portability. Most gel packets hold only about 1 or 1.5 ounces of liquid.


Related Link: How to Lose Fat Without Losing Muscle

Advantages of Using Energy Gels While Jogging

 

 legs of someone running

Carbohydrates are the primary fuel for your muscles while running. This is because converting fat, the body's other fuel source takes more time. You will run out of carbs after a while because your body can only use so much of them. Gels are a convenient way to increase your energy levels in these situations. On average, one energy gel (containing about 25g of carbohydrates) will fuel your body for about 45 minutes of running. Taking two sachets will not double your running time, and will likely have the opposite effect and cause you to crash. Athletes should consume 30–60 grams of carbohydrates for every hour they train, as recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. Sports drinks can provide this, but a gel is often a more convenient and speedier way to take in extra carbohydrates. Since most energy gels contain between 23 and 27 grams of carbohydrates, they are a practical means of gaining a boost. The best-running gels not only give you more energy, but they also digest quickly and won't make you feel sluggish. Formulating a fueling strategy in advance of a big race is the best way to ease into using energy gels as part of your regular running routine. Get your body used to the gels by eating them at regular intervals while training.


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Using Running Gels

Having the right fuel and hydration is crucial for any athlete or fitness enthusiast who wants to maximize their performance. There are many different running gels and fuels on the market today, and it can be difficult to choose the one that is best for you and your workouts. Hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down your options. Consider these alternatives as you plot your race day or training nutrition.


Related Link: How to Make Yourself Full Without Food

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