This gel is also a healthier option out there since its main ingredient is honey and doesn’t have a lot of added “fluff” or artificial flavors or colorings. The honey used in the formula is organically sourced. Isotonic energy gels - Also referred to as electrolyte gels, isotonic gels contain the correct water/electrolyte balance. These gels are thinner due to added water and often include essential electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which aid in hydration and may prevent symptoms such as cramping. While it’s possible to consume these without additional water, it's not generally advisable. CLIF has a large range of products and is a well-known and reputable brand and it lives up to it. The brand tries to help not only the athlete but also the environment. It uses real ingredients and even easily disposable wrappers. Features Elite marathoners do use gels, but because they have dedicated drink stations where they can take on their preferred pre-mixed carbohydrate drinks without having to carry them, the bulk of their fuelling during a race is often done through drinks. Energy drinks are easier to absorb on the run than gels and often contain more carbs per serving, but it is hard for amateurs to carry drinks with them because they are much bulkier and heavier than gels. Do you need gels for a 10K? The caffeinated flavors of GU Energy Gel provide 20-40 milligrams of caffeine that can give you an energy boost whether you are training for a marathon or completing a tough rowing workout. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system to reduce fatigue and improve mental focus. 3. Contains Important Electrolytes

Energy gels: What are energy gels and do they work?

Also important: When browsing different products, pay attention to whether they contain caffeine, says Baumann. If you’re sensitive to the stimulant, then opt for products without it to help avoid GI issues. If you prefer the jolt, try it in training and see how it makes you feel and if that’s the gel or gummy you want to opt to use on race day. This means that unless you’re a professional triathlete, you’ll run out of carbs well before you cross the finish line. What are Energy Gels and How Do They Work

GU Energy Gel Ingredients

Electrolyte-enhanced gels - Similar to isotonic gels, these provide added electrolytes to maintain the body’s balance but may require consumption with water if they are not isotonic. The GU Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel was made for multisport and endurance athletes such as triathletes. During your race, you won’t feel as fatigued during the last miles. This is because the gels were formulated to last for a long time. Instead of getting a “high” and “crash” from other gels, you’ll sustain your energy from start to finish. For those new to distance running, the thought of eating mid-workout may trigger instant queasiness and fears of bathroom emergencies. But any seasoned half, full, or ultramarathoner knows that ingesting fuel during long runs is imperative if you want to feel and perform your best. Runners need to add in 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrate each hour when running for longer than 75 minutes,” says ONE PRO nutritionist Christine Bailey.

GU Energy GU Energy

RECOVER - Vitamins C & E defend muscles from free radicals. Chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory both during and after exercise whilst ginger soothes the stomach. BCAA Support: Contains Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) that help protect working muscles, contribute to energy production, and prevent mental fatigue during prolonged activities. First thing’s first: You don’t need to eat during every run. Generally speaking, midrun fueling isn’t needed for training runs or races lasting less than 60 minutes, because your body typically has enough glycogen on hand to get you through that distance without filling up midway through. There are tons of different gels and chews on the market, and figuring out which ones jive with your stomach—and which ones you actually enjoy—may take some experimentation. “You’re not necessarily going to love it the first time that you have it, but hopefully, once you find one that you can tolerate, and you notice the benefits on your run, then it’s absolutely well worth it,” says Baumann. Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electrical charge and play a role in fluid balance. When you sweat, some of these electrolytes are lost and should be replenished during and after intense training. GU Energy Gels provide around 60 milligrams of sodium and 40 milligrams of potassium, the body's major electrolytes.Be warned that some flavors have caffeine in it. Not a lot, but it’s still noticeable. Be careful when you choose your flavors if you don’t like caffeine or are sensitive to it.