If you’re into intense sports like training for a marathon or tackling an obstacle run, you’ve probably heard of energy gels! These little packets help you keep going without gasping for air after just half an hour. They’re a game-changer for endurance, but do these gels work, and when should you take them?
Find out how these sports supplements can keep your energy levels up when you need them most!
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What Are Energy Gels?
An energy gel is a gel-like substance (you either love it or hate it…) that delivers quick energy in the form of carbohydrates. And guess what? That’s exactly what your body needs during intense activities like an obstacle run! Energy gels typically contain a mix of sugars like glucose and fructose, which your body absorbs rapidly. Some also include electrolytes like sodium and potassium to replenish the salts you lose through sweating. So, are these gels useful? Absolutely—they’re a real all-rounder!
Do Energy Gels Work?
Alright, so you’ve got this little gel packet. But do they actually work? Here’s the deal: during long workouts, your body burns through carbohydrates stored in your muscles and liver. When those run low, you hit an energy slump—something no one wants. Energy gels help prevent that by giving you a quick dose of carbs, keeping you going strong. Pretty handy, right?
In short: an energy gel helps you perform longer and better. Exactly what you need for those tough Strong Viking distances!
When to Take Energy Gels?
So, you’ve taken a gel—now what? You’ll usually feel the effects within 5 to 15 minutes! The sugars inside are absorbed super fast. It helps if you take it with some water (hydration is always important!) to make digestion even smoother.
Energy gels combine fast and slow-release carbohydrates, so you get both an instant energy boost and sustained energy over time. This prevents the dreaded sugar crash that some sugary products cause. Sounds good, right?
What Are the Best Energy Gels?
There are plenty of gels out there, and the best one depends on your personal preference. Here are some popular options:
H24 Prolong Energy Gel – Great for endurance activities like obstacle runs, and it even contains protein for muscle support.
Maurten Gel 100 – A favorite among athletes because it’s easy to digest and contains no added flavors.
SiS GO Isotonic Gel – A unique gel that doesn’t require water, thanks to its isotonic properties.
It’s a good idea to test different gels during training so you know which one works best for you.
How Many Energy Gels Per Hour?
Most athletes take 1 to 2 gels per hour during endurance activities. This provides around 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour, which is ideal for most endurance sports. If your workout lasts longer, you might need slightly more.
Avoid taking too many gels at once, as this can upset your stomach. Space them out evenly and stay hydrated.
Here’s a simple guideline for using H24 Prolong Energy Gels from Herbalife:
- Less than 1.5 hours of intense exercise: 1 gel per hour
- 1.5 to 2 hours of intense exercise: 2 gels per hour
Note: The maximum recommended intake is 4 gels per day.
Energy Gels at Strong Viking
Taking on a grueling challenge like Strong Viking? The last thing you want is to run out of energy halfway through. That’s why taking the right gel is a game-changer! The H24 Prolong Energy Gel from Herbalife provides both carbohydrates and protein, keeping your muscles strong and giving you the boost you need to conquer every obstacle. Perfect for events where strength and endurance are key!
Since Strong Viking partners with Herbalife, you’ll find H24 Prolong Energy Gels at the refueling stations from the 13 km mark. Need an extra energy kick? The Herbalife team will be there to help you power through to the finish line! 💪🔥