9 best energy gel for runners
Energy gels are popular supplements among runners and endurance athletes to provide a quick and easily digestible source of energy during long training sessions or races. These gels are designed to provide a concentrated burst of carbohydrates and sometimes other nutrients to help athletes maintain their energy levels and performance. Here are some key points related to energy gels for runners:
Carbohydrate Source: Energy gels primarily consist of carbohydrates, typically in the form of maltodextrin, fructose, or a combination of both. Carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source during exercise.
Quick Energy: Energy gels are formulated to be rapidly absorbed by the body. They can provide a quick boost of energy when taken, making them ideal for mid-race or training pick-me-ups.
Electrolytes: Some energy gels also contain electrolytes like sodium and potassium to help replace the electrolytes lost through sweating.This can aid in preventing dehydration and muscle cramps during prolonged exercise.
Caffeine: Certain energy gels contain caffeine, which can provide an additional energy boost and improve mental alertness. However, it's important for runners to be aware of their caffeine tolerance and not overdo it.
Flavors and Variety: Energy gels come in a variety of flavors, making it easier for athletes to find options that they enjoy and can tolerate during exercise.
Timing: It's crucial for runners to consume energy gels strategically. Typically, athletes take them every 30-45 minutes during long runs or races, along with water, to ensure optimal absorption.
Digestibility: Energy gels are designed to be easily digested, but individuals may have different preferences and tolerances. Some athletes find that certain brands or flavors are gentler on their stomachs than others.
Training and Testing: It's essential for runners to test different energy gels during training to determine which ones work best for them. It's not advisable to try a new gel for the first time during a race.
Storage: Energy gels should be stored in a cool, dry place and should not be exposed to extreme temperatures.
Balanced Nutrition: While energy gels can be a helpful part of an endurance athlete's nutrition strategy, they should not be the sole source of nutrition during longer events. Runners should also consume a balanced diet before and after races or training sessions.
Energy gels can be a valuable tool for runners and other endurance athletes to maintain their energy levels during extended physical activity. However, individual preferences, tolerance, and nutritional needs can vary, so it's essential for athletes to experiment with different brands and products to find what works best for them. Additionally, consulting with a sports nutritionist or healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on fueling strategies for optimal performance.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best energy gel for runners on the marketProduct description
GU Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is the energy gel that started it all. In 1993, Dr. Bill Vaughn developed the world's first energy gel to help his daughter perform better during ultra-marathons, and GU has been helping to propel the world's most successful extreme athletes to success ever since. GU Energy Gel sustains all forms of athletic activity with a highly compact, portable, and calorie-dense packet that is loaded with carbohydrates that can be rapidly absorbed. Branched-chain amino acids limit muscle fiber damage and increase speed of recovery, and extra electrolytes help maintain water balance. Some flavors feature caffeine to increase concentration. While the original formula has been tweaked and evolved over the years, the end result is still the same: GU Energy Gels fuel the best endurance athletes in the world. GU Original Energy Gel comes in a wide variety of great tasting flavors. Each packet contains 450mg of Amino acids, 100 calories, and at least 21g total carbs.
- Variety Pack includes Chocolate Outrage, Salted Caramel, Vanilla Bean, Jet Blackberry, Tri-berry, and Strawberry Banana; caffeine varies by flavor
- The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel designed to help athletes perform their best; 100 calories and essential electrolytes in a portable packet
- Dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose that use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy
- Use for training or racing; take one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity
- Branched-chain amino acids to help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
User questions & answers
Question: | Purpose of amino acids in GU |
Answer: | Hi, great question and thanks for asking! We have BCAA (branch chain amino acids) in just about all GU products. BCAA's refer to the three essential amino acids — leucine, valine, isoleucine. BCAA’s are metabolized in the muscle and help by preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue during and after exercise. Leucine, the most important amino acid, is critical in initiating the protein synthesis, the process through which your muscles rebuild and get stronger. So, these amino acids will help both during and after exercise! For more information and details, please see our website: www.guenergy.com Thanks! - Brian, GU Energy Labs |
Question: | In the assorted pack are they caffeinated? looking for only non caffeinated options |
Answer: | now they have a new assorted pack, with no caffeine. Alas, only 4 tastes in it, and they are many great ones. |
Question: | I am 70 years old and do 22 minutes stationary bike avg HR 128 and the circuit train 20 mintues avg HR 130.Tired during and after, will this help |
Answer: | It won't hurt to try using GU, but you should have enough liver and muscle glycogen to fuel a workout that short. Google "Mendosa Glycemic Index" and pick anything higher than 90 and eat it. Fuel problem solved. I doubt that's the problem though, as you indicate fatigue during the workout. I would RX 400mg of CoQ10 every day. Double that dose the first week. That should allow your heart to work harder with less fatigue. You might also try L-Carnosine, or the Rocktane product. I'm not a doctor. YMMV. All of this assumes you aren't fatigued from simply being out of condition. Pick up a copy of "Fast After 50" by Joe Friel. I think AMZN sells it. In general, fatigue comes from doing more work between rest than your body is conditioned for. Start wherever you're at and continue to ramp up the duration and intensity. I'm 64 and recently did a 70mi bike ride that took 6hrs - 4:45 moving time - no problem. "Wherever you're at, that's where you are" Begin.... |
Question: | Why do I always have to follow with water? Isn't a little spit enough |
Answer: | The human body requires dry carbohydrate, like sugar, to be mixed with 3 parts water. Most fruit already contains this liquid, so unlike sugar or starch, it is already balanced for consumption. A quick Google Safari will confirm this, OR, eat a teaspoon of sugar and note the thirst that immediately follows. This is why people also complain that carbs bloat them. This has NOTHING to do with GU or any other product. It's a characteristic of carbohydrate. |
Product description
CLIF SHOT Energy Gel provides quick energy to athletes while racing and training. 8 flavors, with ingredients that are 90% organic, and a thin consistency make getting energized between breaths quick and easy. With Litter Leash Packaging.
- Who knew strawberries could pack this much get-going caffeine?
- DESIGNED BY ATHLETES FOR ATHLETES: CLIF SHOT Energy Gel provides quick energy for training and racing.
- FLAVORS YOU’LL LOVE: Available in nine delicious flavors.
- CUSTOMIZABLE CAFFEINE LEVELS: Available in four different caffeine levels (from 0 to 100mg) to help customize your energy boost.
- CONVENIENT PACKAGING: Litter Leash top stays attached to the packaging so you can help keep our roads and trails pristine.
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this work for someone with low energy trying to move and accomplish tasks |
Answer: | Hi Noah, there’s 150mg of caffeine in each shot from organic green tea and guayusa. We say the caffeine quantity is about equivalent a cup and a half of coffee. Thanks! |
Question: | Is this gluten free? If so, is it manufactured in a way that ensures no cross contamination with wheat containing products |
Answer: | Hi Sandra, this product is more for Energy. We do also make Apple Cider Vinegar Shots that you can also find on Amazon, those are often used to help with Gerd. Please let us know if we can help any further. Thanks! |
Question: | What is the expiry on this product? thanks |
Answer: | Pureboost is not currently certified as Kosher. |
Question: | What is carb count per pouch |
Answer: | Recycling centers across the USA have different capabilities and cannot all recycle the same items. We suggest checking with your local recycling center as they will know for sure if you can recycle them in your district. |
Product features
Delivers Quick Energy
With simple carbohydrates, CLIF SHOT Energy Gels provide a quick burst of energy when you need it most. Some flavors even offer caffeine to help keep you mentally sharp as you push your limits
Available in several delicious flavors with varying levels of caffeine and sodium to customize your needs
Whether you’re training for a 5K race or your first century ride, you’ll hit a point where you start to feel sluggish. CLIF SHOT energy gels come in eight different flavors with varying amounts of caffeine so you can customize the energy boost to your body’s needs.
Easy to open and easy to carry, with minimal interruption
When you’re chasing your personal best, nothing should get in your way. We designed our packaging to be lightweight and convenient to carry, so you don’t miss a step. It’s also easy to open, with a streamlined Litter Leash that prevents torn pieces of packaging from flying away.
- ✅ 22g OF FAST-ACTING CARBOHYDRATES: World’s first isotonic gel effectively delivering an easily digestible and quick supply of carbohydrate for energy during exercise. Helping you achieve your fueling needs for cycling, running, and all endurance activities.
- ✅ NO EXTRA WATER NEEDED: They are designed to be consumed without water, minimizing the risk of being bloated that can sometimes occur with over-drinking. No water means no digestive distress such as vomiting, cramps or worse.
- ✅ LOW SUGAR, CRASH FREE: Depleting your carbohydrate stores during exercise is one of the major causes of fatigue. Delivering additional carbohydrates during exercise is known to improve performance, race time and delay the onset of fatigue. 1g (or less) of sugar in every gel to keep your energy levels stable.
- ✅ FLAVORS & TEXTURE YOU WILL LOVE: Our gels are different from the competition- they don’t have a thick, sticky texture – they have a light, drinkable consistency. Giving you the boost you need to finish the race without a lingering aftertaste.
- ✅ FREE OF BANNED SUBSTANCES: Triple tested means we test three separate samples from every batch we produce. Informed Sport Certified guarantees a quality professional's trust. Our Isotonic Gels undergo rigorous testing through a world-class anti-doping lab.
User questions & answers
Question: | can we incorporate this gel into a keto diet |
Answer: | Yes....but keto is literally a low carb high fat diet. This product is literally 100% pure carbs. Think about it..... |
Question: | what is the expiration date of the gels |
Answer: | It is printed on the box and individual gel packets. |
Question: | The box doesn't mention anything about caffeine, is there caffeine and if so, how much |
Answer: | It depends on the flavor. Some flavors have caffeine and others don’t. But usually the priduct description says caffeine. |
Question: | Which flavors come in the variety box? Is the picture accurate |
Answer: | Yes, 2 lemon lime, 2 Apple, 1 orange, 1 tropical |
- 100% ALL-NATURAL SPORTS NUTRITION – Fruit Puree. Powdered Chia Seeds. Brown Rice Syrup. You don't need a PhD to pronounce the ingredients in Hüma products. Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan Friendly.
- HAPPY STOMACHS – Give your stomach REAL FOOD it can easily process and watch your stomach problems disappear. Kiss dextrose and maltodextrin goodbye.
- THEY ACTUALLY TASTE GOOD – Huma energy gels are the BEST-TASTING energy gels on the market. Made with fruit and natural sources of healthy carbs and protein - all 9 essential amino acids.
- ACHIEVE YOUR BEST PERFORMANCE, NATURALLY – Huma Gel is made with finely milled Chia Seeds to help modulate an even energy output, and has a 2:1 ratio of short & long chain Glucose to Fructose for maximum carbohydrate uptake.
- PRE & DURING RACE ENERGY SUPPLEMENT – Ideal for Runners, Cyclists, Triathletes, Endurance Athletes; No Caffeine: Strawberries, Apples & Cinnamon, Blueberries, Mangoes; Caffeine: Chocolate (25mg), Cafe Mocha (50mg), Raspberries (25mg), and Lemonade (25mg).
User questions & answers
Question: | Does the variety pack come with all the available flavors |
Answer: | Yes,I ordered the 24 variety pack and I got all 8 flavors ( times3) |
Question: | Although this is so awesome to find a product without caffeine, I notice it also differs from your other product because it has no Magnesium. Why |
Answer: | Huma Chia Energy Gel “Plus” and Huma Gel “Recovery” use magnesium as one of the additional ingredients for the “natural electrolytes. https://humagel.com/pages/nutrition-info |
Question: | Has anyone seen a dramtic improvement in their running ability since taking these? I'm at a runners wall and hoping this can help |
Answer: | This gel has absolutely helped me out, and I did just crush through a personal wall this past weekend on a long run. However, as another person said, it's just a gel. If you're facing a wall, look at other areas of your training -- are you cross training? Doing speed work? Using foam rollers to really get those stiff muscles feeling good? For my run this past weekend, I also carried a cooling towel around my neck (got on here on Amazon for 8 bucks) and that made a HUGE difference. So, no, I don't think a gel alone is going to blast you through a wall, though this is the best one I've ever had. |
Question: | Regarding the 12-gel variety pack, which four of the overall 8 flavors have a 2nd pack that comes in this size pack? (Please don't write a response if you don't know the answer |
Answer: | I received two apple, two strawberry, two blueberry, two latte, one lemon, one mango, one raspberry, one chocolate. I don't know if that is typical. |
Product features
It Actually Tastes Good
No, really. Each flavor must pass the ultimate test: do our nephews think it tastes good? (barfing sounds = fail)
Feel Good About Your Ingredients
You don’t need a PhD to pronounce the ingredients in Huma Gel.
Ingredients List for Huma Strawberry: strawberry puree, cane sugar, brown rice syrup, water, powdered chia seeds, strawberry concentrate, sea salt, citric acid.
Keep Your Stomach Happy
Give your stomach something it can easily process and watch your stomach problems disappear.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
Get Your Performance Naturally
We started with the ancient fuel of the Tarahumara Indians, history’s premiere ultramarathoners, and combined it with advanced nutrition research to create Huma Gel.
Product description
GU Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is the energy gel that started it all. In 1993, Dr. Bill Vaughn developed the world’s first energy gel to help his daughter perform better during ultra-marathons, and GU has been helping to propel the world’s most successful extreme athletes to success ever since. GU Energy Gel sustains all forms of athletic activity with a highly compact, portable, and calorie-dense packet that is loaded with carbohydrates that can be rapidly absorbed. Branched-chain amino acids limit muscle fiber damage and increase speed of recovery, and extra electrolytes help maintain water balance. Some flavors feature caffeine to increase concentration. While the original formula has been tweaked and evolved over the years, the end result is still the same: GU Energy Gels fuel the best endurance athletes in the world. GU Original Energy Gel comes in a wide variety of good tasting flavors. Each serving contains 450mg of Amino acids, 100 calories, and at least 21g total carbs.
- The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in a 15 serving packet designed to help athletes perform their best; 100 calories per serving and essential electrolytes in this 15 serving bulk pouch
- Dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose that use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy
- Use for training or racing; take one serving 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity
- Branched-chain amino acids to help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
- Vanilla Bean, each serving contains 20mg Caffeine, 60mg Sodium, 40mg Potassium
User questions & answers
Question: | How long will these last if refrigerated |
Answer: | No. It is a duffel on wheels |
Question: | how soon after opening do you have to use the product? i only use these for racing, not daily training |
Answer: | I didn't buy mine for plane travel. I think it would be too large for carry-on though. Personally, I would not use it for plane carry-on. |
Question: | Can you eat it without the flask |
Answer: | Can't tell you the exact answer but it is very well made. I am 6'4 260 and need it for a duffel bag for mountain trips to NC. I use it for clothes boots etc. A regular suitcase does not cut it for me. |
Question: | Does this come with the flask |
Answer: | There is a loop and snap on the zipper. You thread the lock behind the strap and through the loop. |
Product description
GU Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is the energy gel that started it all. In 1993, Dr. Bill Vaughn developed the world’s first energy gel to help his daughter perform better during ultra-marathons, and GU has been helping to propel the world’s most successful extreme athletes to success ever since. GU Energy Gel sustains all forms of athletic activity with a highly compact, portable, and calorie-dense packet that is loaded with carbohydrates that can be rapidly absorbed. Branched-chain amino acids limit muscle fiber damage and increase speed of recovery, and extra electrolytes help maintain water balance. Some flavors feature caffeine to increase concentration. While the original formula has been tweaked and evolved over the years, the end result is still the same: GU Energy Gels fuel the best endurance athletes in the world. GU Original Energy Gel comes in a wide variety of good tasting flavors. Each packet contains 450mg of Amino acids, 100 calories, and at least 21g total carbs.
- The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel designed to help athletes perform their best; 100 calories and essential electrolytes in a portable packet
- Dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose that use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy
- Use for training or racing; take one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity
- Branched-chain amino acids to help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
- Strawberry Banana is Caffeine Free, and contains 55mg Sodium, 35mg Potassium
User questions & answers
Question: | what is the expiry date of the product |
Answer: | the box I ordered says 11/15, which is over one year from date I purchased. However they are fine past that date, I have consumed them after the date and no change in taste, as they are basically sugar. |
Question: | Any way to switch strawberry banana with something else |
Answer: | No. |
Question: | What's the difference between 24 pack and 24 count |
Answer: | Is the same thing. Please check if the seller ships the package with some extra protection since in other cases the gel bags may explode. |
Question: | Any tennis players use this product? Have tried another brand (coffee & chocolate) and gets me all jittery which is not good for a tennis match |
Answer: | If the jittery feeling you experienced was from caffeine, you can rest assured that this flavor (Strawberry Banana) is caffeine free. If you have any other questions or would like to speak to a GU customer service rep please call 800-400-1995 and we will be happy to discuss flavors and ingredients with you. With Kindness, Brian @ GU Customer Service |
- DESIGNED BY ATHLETES FOR ATHLETES: CLIF SHOT Energy Gel provides quick energy for training and racing.
- FLAVORS YOU’LL LOVE: Available in nine delicious flavors.
- CUSTOMIZABLE CAFFEINE LEVELS: Available in four different caffeine levels (from 0 to 100mg) to help customize your energy boost.
- CONVENIENT PACKAGING: Litter Leash top stays attached to the packaging so you can help keep our roads and trails pristine.
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the shelf life of this product |
Answer: | I still have a couple left and the best buy date reads 28 Nov 2020 - plenty of time. |
Question: | What are the ingredients |
Answer: | Too many ingredients to list. Mainly, natural flavors and amino acids. |
Question: | Are these Gluten free |
Answer: | Yes, indeed. |
Question: | What is the carb count on these |
Answer: | The package only shows 12 g of sugar. Contact the manufacturer if more information is needed. Nothing else on the package or box. |
Product features
How do I use CLIF SHOTTM Energy Gels?
CLIF SHOT Energy Gels contain fast-acting carbohydrates that provide working muscles with a continuous supply of energy to help you push yourself farther. We recommend that athletes eat one packet 15 minutes prior to activity, then two or three packets per hour during activity to help boost energy and performance. And remember to drink water afterward!
Are CLIF SHOTS Energy Gels organic?
CLIF SHOT Energy Gels include 85–90% organic ingredients and are made with organic cane sugar. Organic farming protects our farming communities and the environment from highly toxic and persistent pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
Do CLIF SHOT Energy Gels contain caffeine?
CLIF SHOT Energy Gels are available in four different caffeine levels to customize your energy needs: 0mg (Boston Cream Pie, Chocolate, Razz, Vanilla), 25mg (Citrus, Strawberry), 50mg (Mocha), and 100mg (Chocolate Cherry, Double Expresso) †. Extracted from green tea, this caffeine gives athletes a boost by supporting mental alertness. †NOT RECOMMENDED FOR PREGNANT OR NURSING WOMEN, CHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS OLD, OR PEOPLE SENSITIVE TO CAFFEINE.
Product description
GU Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel is the energy gel that started it all. In 1993, Dr. Bill Vaughn developed the world’s first energy gel to help his daughter perform better during ultra-marathons, and GU has been helping to propel the world’s most successful extreme athletes to success ever since. GU Energy Gel sustains all forms of athletic activity with a highly compact, portable, and calorie-dense packet that is loaded with carbohydrates that can be rapidly absorbed. Branched-chain amino acids limit muscle fiber damage and increase speed of recovery, and extra electrolytes help maintain water balance. Some flavors feature caffeine to increase concentration. While the original formula has been tweaked and evolved over the years, the end result is still the same: GU Energy Gels fuel the best endurance athletes in the world. GU Original Energy Gel comes in a wide variety of good tasting flavors. Each packet contains 450mg of Amino acids, 100 calories, and at least 21g total carbs.
- The Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel designed to help athletes perform their best; 100 calories and essential electrolytes in a portable packet
- Dual source energy from maltodextrin and fructose that use non-competing pathways for efficient absorption and lasting energy
- Use for training or racing; take one packet 5 minutes before and every 45 minutes during activity
- Branched-chain amino acids to help decrease muscle damage and mental fatigue
- Strawberry Banana is Caffeine Free, and contains 55mg Sodium, 35mg Potassium
User questions & answers
Question: | what is the expiry date of the product |
Answer: | Yes, I use them for an energy liquid for mountain biking. The plastic is hard but you can still squeeze it enough to make the liquid come out. The top slides up and down to open and close. The top seals good but I would make sure to keep upright or put in a ziplock just to be safe. It is very similar to the tops you would find on maple syrup bottles. Each bottle is just under 5 inches tall with the top closed and hold 3.5 oz. I looked alot of places and these were the only ones I could find for the size, everything else was bigger. I would buy them if I were you. I hope this helps. |
Question: | Any way to switch strawberry banana with something else |
Answer: | Box is 10x6x4 |
Question: | What's the difference between 24 pack and 24 count |
Answer: | They had a sample pack of 6 I believe |
Question: | Any tennis players use this product? Have tried another brand (coffee & chocolate) and gets me all jittery which is not good for a tennis match |
Answer: | May of 2023 |
- 22g OF FAST-ACTING CARBOHYDRATES: World’s first isotonic gel effectively delivering an easily digestible and quick supply of carbohydrate for energy during exercise. Helping you achieve your fueling needs for cycling, running, and all endurance activities.
- NO EXTRA WATER NEEDED: They are designed to be consumed without water, minimizing the risk of being bloated that can sometimes occur with over-drinking. No water means no digestive distress such as vomiting, cramps or worse.
- CAFFEINE BOOST: 75mg When pushing yourself hard, your brain controls how fatigued you feel. Caffeine acts as a stimulant on the brain to lower your perception of effort, allowing you to keep pushing and maybe stretch yourself a little further.
- FLAVORS & TEXTURE YOU WILL LOVE: Our gels are different from the competition- they don’t have a thick, sticky texture – they have a light, drinkable consistency. Giving you the boost you need to finish the race without a lingering aftertaste.
- VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, KOSHER: For optimal results consume 1‐3 gels per hour to deliver approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates and maximize carbohydrate utilization rates
User questions & answers
Question: | What’s the dimension of the package? Description says 225 x 97 x 165 inches. That’s a huge box for 30 gels |
Answer: | It is not padded. Great bag none the less. |
Question: | Is there any way to buy a product sample? I hate to buy a box of 30 w/o knowing if i like it or not |
Answer: | My boots are 14.5" tall and there is still about 1.5" of room, so the measurement in the product info is accurate at 16". Hopefully that helps. |
Question: | When the expired date of this product |
Answer: | There is no single shoulder strap so it's either hand carry or backpack style. But it's great used as the backpack to leave your hands free and equally distribute the bag weight. |
Question: | When the expired date of this product |
Answer: | Its a great bag but no rolling wheels. That must be a mistake in the description. |
Question: | Is this product vegan |
Answer: | There is a zippered pocket near the top that is accessible from outside. The remainder is one space. That space seems like it is bottomless because I keep putting clothes, etc. in and it is still not full. |
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