I’m always on the hunt for new running energy supplements. I’ve tried dozens of them, and these are my favorites. They’re all/mostly natural, so they won’t make you feel sick like some sports drinks can. And they really help me power through my long runs. So far this year I’ve run 2 major races – the Rose Bowl Pasadena Half Marathon and the LA Marathon. Over my years of running I definitely learned a thing or two about proper hydration and refueling. There was a time when I would’ve never considered energy supplements but to be honest, I didn’t have the proper information regarding how to fuel your body.
What are running energy supplements and why do you need them
Most people are familiar with energy drinks, but energy supplements specifically for runners are a relatively new phenomenon. These products are designed to provide an extra boost of energy before or during a run, and they come in a variety of forms including gels, chews, and bars. Some energy supplements also contain caffeine, which can further improve performance. While some runners may be skeptical about using energy supplements, there are actually several good reasons to give them a try. First of all, they can help you to run further and faster by giving you an extra boost of energy when you need it most. Additionally, they can help you to avoid bonking or hitting the wall by providing a steady stream of energy rather than a sudden spike followed by a crash. If you’re looking for an edge on your next race or training run, energy supplements may be just what you need.
My top five running energy supplements
Honey Stinger Energy Chews
My current favorite are Honey Stinger Energy Chews. I like them because they’re easy to carry with me on a run, and they give me a nice boost of energy without making me feel jittery. The chews are made with honey and other natural ingredients, so they’re also quite delicious. I definitely recommend giving them a try if you’re looking for a new running energy supplement.
Honey Stinger Organic Gels
Honey Stinger makes organic gels that are designed to give runners a boost of energy. The gels come in different flavors, including fruit smoothie, cherry blossom, and orange blossom. They are made with real honey, which is a natural source of energy, and also contain other ingredients like electrolytes and vitamins. The gels are easy to digest and provide a sustained release of energy, making them perfect for long runs or races. I have tried all of the flavors and my favorite is the fruit smoothie. It’s not too sweet and has just enough of a kick to keep me going. I would definitely recommend Honey Stinger gels to anyone looking for running energy supplements.
Run Gum
Run Gum is a running energy gum that claims to help you run faster and longer. The company was founded by two running enthusiasts who were looking for a way to get an edge on their competition. Run Gum is unique in that it contains caffeine and other ingredients that are designed to give you a burst of energy. The gum is vegan and gluten-free. All of these factors make Run Gum an attractive option for runners who are looking for a natural way to boost their performance.
Bloks Energy Chews
Clif Block Energy Chews are specifically designed to give you an energy boost when you need it most. Each chew is packed with energy- boosting ingredients like caffeine, guarana, and ginseng. And, they’re portable and easy to take with you on the go. Simply pop a couple of chews in your mouth and let them dissolve. Within minutes, you’ll start to feel more energetic and alert.
Good Day Chocolates
Many people turn to chocolate energy supplements to help them get through the day. Good Day Chocolate is one such company that produces chocolate energy supplements. Their chocolate is made with natural ingredients and is free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. What’s more, Good Day Chocolate energy supplements are also vegan-friendly and gluten-free. So whether you’re looking for a delicious snack or a way to boost your energy levels, Good Day Chocolate has you covered.
How to choose the best running energy supplement for you
Energy supplements come in many different forms, from gels and chews to bars and drinks. With so many options available, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. The best way to choose an energy supplement is to first decide what form you prefer. Do you want something that you can carry with you on a long run, or are you looking for an easy-to-digest option that will give you a boost before your morning workout? Once you’ve narrowed down the field, it’s important to read the label carefully and compare the ingredients. Some energy supplements contain caffeine, while others rely on carbohydrates or proteins for fuel. Choose an option that contains ingredients that you’re familiar with and that you know will agree with your stomach. Consider your budget. Energy supplements can range in price from a few dollars to over $100. And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Trying out different brands and formulas is the best way to find out what works best for you.
The benefits of using running energy supplements
A lot of people (like my younger self) think that they don’t need to take energy supplements while running, either because they think it will hinder their performance or because they think it’s unnecessary. However, taking energy supplements while running can actually have a lot of benefits. For one thing, energy supplements can help to increase your endurance and prevent fatigue. They can help to provide the extra boost of energy needed to power through a long run, and they can also help to reduce recovery time afterwards. They can also help you to burn more calories and improve your overall running performance. In addition, energy supplements can help you to avoid cramps and other problems that can occur when you’re running low on energy.
Tips for taking your running energy supplement before a workout or race
Running energy supplements can give you the edge you need to power through your workout or race. But how do you know when to take them? And what’s the best way to take them? Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your energy supplements:
- Take them before you need them. Energy supplements are most effective when taken before you start to feel fatigued. That means taking them before your run, or even before your warm-up.
- Go for a gel or liquid. When you’re running, you want energy that will be absorbed quickly and efficiently. energy gels and liquids are designed to do just that – they’ll give you a burst of energy without weighing you down or making your stomach feel upset.
- Don’t overdo it. It’s tempting to want to chug an energy drink before a long run or race, but more isn’t always better. Stick to the recommended dose – too much caffeine can actually dehydrate you and make you feel more fatigued.
Side effects of some common running energy supplements
It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of taking energy supplements before taking them. For example, some energy supplements contain stimulants like caffeine, which can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, anxiety jitters, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Many contain artificial sweeteners, which can cause bloating and gastrointestinal distress. Others may contain ingredients that can cause digestive problems, such as cramping and diarrhea. Still others contain large amounts of sugar, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels. And in some cases, energy supplements may interact with other medications you are taking. So before you start popping energy pills, be sure to research the potential side effects and talk to your doctor to see if they are right for you.
Energy supplements are a great way to give your body an extra boost when it needs it, but they should not be relied on as a sole source of energy. Make sure you know the pros and cons of taking energy supplements before you start using them, and find the right ones for you by talking to your doctor or reading reviews. What have been your experiences with energy supplements?
