Energy Gels For Running
What Are Energy Gels?
Running or exercise in general burns calories, in order to keep going and not run out of carbohydrates and therefore energy, you can turn to energy gels.
Energy gels are a quick way to digest around 90 - 100 calories of carbohydrates to keep you from hitting the dreaded wall.
Although carbohydrates are not the only fuel that your body can draw from, it can also use fat and protein/muscle, it is the most easily accessible for your body. Fat and Muscle take longer to break down.
Depending on the pace you're running at, depends on what fuel source your body uses. Low effort, zone 1 to zone 2 heart rate means your body will also draw up fat stores as it doesn't need the energy quickly. The faster you run, the more your body will need to pull from the carbohydrate stores, in the blood and the muscles. This type of carbohydrate is referred to as glycogen.
Every runner is different, different in ability, fitness level, genetics, weight, height, stride length, etc but as a general rule of thumb most people will start to get towards the end of their carbohydrate stores at the end of a half marathon distance, so can top up on an energy gel or 2 prior to reaching the end to ensure they don't "bonk".
If you're running longer distances but as a slower pace, then you may want to consider taking a source of carbohydrate, whether that is in gel form or otherwise around the 13 mile mark.
How Do Energy Gels Work?
Not all gels are created equal. It gets absorbed into the blood, and the simple sugars used in the gel give you a spike in energy, and also insulin. Through the blood, the bloody then transports this energy to your muscles which fuels your limbs.
Some brands such as Hammer Nutrition, have steered clear of simple sugars, and rely more on a complex carbohydrate, Maltodextrin. This gives you less of an instant "boost" and corresponding "crash", but a more evenly released energy.
Energy gels contain about 25g of carbohydrates per gel. One gel provides about 45 minutes of running, but taking two at a time doesn’t mean you’ll have 90 minutes of running, instead you’re likely to crash as your body attempts to process the sugar.
Through the improvements in technology some brands are also now encapsulating the carbohydrate inside a "hydrogel" to allow a higher amount of carbohydrate to be taken on board at any one time.
When Should You Use them?
The perfect time to take an energy gel depends on the individual. Every runner absorbs and processes carbohydrates at a different rate. Some can feel the effect within three minutes while for others, it might take up to 15.
When Should You Use Gels?
Wait around 45-60 minutes between gels, or around 6-7 miles to ensure you don’t intake too much simple sugar at once. Likewise, consider alternating between caffeine and non-caffeine gels to ensure you don’t overload on caffeine.
Train your stomach as well as your legs...
We get a lot of customers in store 2 days before their race asking what gels we recommend they take. At that point it's too late to risk it. "stick with how you've trained" is our usual response.
If you are at the start or have the time before a race in terms of weeks, then by all means train with gels to get your body used to them prior to race day. Nobody wants an unplanned toilet stop!
It is also important to drink water with gels. If you take on multiple gels without water it is likely they will sit in your stomach and ferment. get them flushed through and the carbohydrate absorbed!
Optimize Your Energy Levels with Isotonic Energy Gels:
Our collection includes a range of isotonic gels meticulously crafted to provide a quick and effective energy boost. These gels are specially formulated to match the body's fluid balance, ensuring rapid absorption and sustained energy for your long-distance endeavours. Elevate your running experience with our premium isotonic gels designed to keep you at your peak performance level.
Replenish Glycogen Stores with Carbohydrate Gels:
Maintaining adequate glycogen stores is crucial for endurance athletes. Our carbohydrate gels for running are expertly formulated to deliver a concentrated source of energy, helping you sustain your pace during extended runs. Explore our selection and discover the ideal carbohydrate gel for running that suits your nutritional needs. We have both non-caffeinated and caffeinated gels available in our quality range.
Enhance Hydration with Sports Drinks and Added Electrolytes:
In addition to gels, we offer a range of sports drinks fortified with added electrolytes. Hydration is key to optimal performance, and our selection of sports drinks is designed to replenish essential electrolytes lost during prolonged physical activity. Stay hydrated, maintain peak performance, and conquer long distances with our carefully curated sports nutrition options.
Discover the Best Running Gels for Your Unique Needs:
Finding the best gels for your individual requirements is essential for achieving your running goals. Our collection encompasses a variety of options, including vegan and natural ingredients gels, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your taste preferences and nutritional needs. If you're looking for the best carbohydrate gel for running, we have you covered.
Why Choose Our from our range:
Curated Selection: We've handpicked the best running gels and nutrition products to cater to the diverse needs of runners.
Performance Optimization: Our products are designed to enhance energy levels, replenish glycogen stores, and support overall sports nutrition.
Quality Assurance: Trust in the quality and effectiveness of our running energy gels, backed by a commitment to excellence in sports nutrition.
Fuel your passion for running with our optimized collection of energy gels and nutrition products. Elevate your performance, conquer long distances, and make every run a memorable experience. Explore our range today and discover the best running gels tailored to meet your unique requirements.
