Coach Rebecca

You have decided to increase your mileage and have heard about people ingesting these gel packets. After viewing them in the store you ask how in the world is this supposed to help and why would anyone want to eat while they are running. Or maybe you have done some research and have tried a gel or two. Let me share some information that I have learned over the years of running.

The most important things I have learned over the years of running and consuming gels 1) make sure they are not expired 2) hydration is key. You probably think well duh, make sure the gel isn’t expired, but I unfortunately was heading out for a longer run one day and grabbed a gel. I needed the fuel so as most runners, tore it open and squeezed it into my mouth, upon swallowing the fuel, quickly learned there was mold in the gel. UGH!! Lesson learned, make sure your gel has not expired.

The second, hydration. We know as athletes; hydration is an important part of our daily lives. Consuming gels when not properly hydrated, if you have not experienced this, can cause major GI (gastrointestinal) upset. I fought this many times for years, until in discussion was told to try consuming water when taking a gel. It definitely helped so I started making sure whenever consuming gels to have them at a water stop in a race. However, I still had some GI discomfort after races.

I have also tried other options, most recently applesauce. I enjoyed the applesauce, no gut aches or upset with consumption, but again learned they were not the fuel my body needed for long runs. This past summer, in the heat and perfuse sweating, the applesauce fuel did not provide the sodium to help replenish the amount I lost thru sweat. I ran out the energy needed to finish the long run comfortably.

Most recently, I started researching about different options for fuel. There are a few new options available for athletes that have GI upset from fuel. I have tried two of the three brands and have had no side effects of either. They provide the sugar, sodium, and caffeine if needed/wanted during your workout. My last and most recent run, 20 miles, was split between 10 miles on the treadmill (perfuse sweating) and 10 miles outside. I felt great, no GI issues and had the energy to complete my run. I think I may have found a new source of fuel.

My suggestions if you are looking to try fuel for your runs or need something different, check out Spring Energy, Maurten, or Huma. Remember to try them before race day! You may also have to bring your own fuel on race day, so make sure to review the details regarding the race’s fueling stations.

I have no relationship with any of these companies, and I am sure the other gels may work amazing for you too!