Energy bars for running and trail

What is an energy bar?

An energy bar is a solid and compact food designed to provide quickly available energy during a workout. It usually consists of carbohydrates, sometimes combined with proteins or dried fruits, and fits easily into a pocket or a running bag. It is suitable for both running and trail or longer training sessions.

When to eat an energy bar during exertion?

The right time depends on the duration and intensity of your session. For a short effort, a bar before you start is generally enough to get through. For a long outing, whether running or trail, it's common to consume one every 45 minutes to an hour to avoid running low on energy, while ensuring you drink enough at the same time to aid digestion.

Bars, drinks or gels: how to choose?

The energy and endurance selection offers various formats to combine based on your session's needs:

• Energy drinks, which combine carbohydrate intake and hydration, useful for efforts that make you sweat.
• Energy gels, quicker to swallow and digest, suitable for times when you don't want to chew while running.

To compare all energy solutions, the Energy / Endurance page brings together these three product families.

How to choose your energy bar according to your sport?

The choice mainly depends on the type of effort. For road running, a bar that’s easy to chew while running and not too sweet on the palate helps avoid nausea over time. In trail running, where outings often last several hours, a richer and sometimes savoury composition helps to vary the intake. In training and physical prep, a bar eaten after the session can also aid recovery, depending on its protein content.

When to take advantage of the best deals on energy bars?

Prices for sports nutrition fluctuate with business operations on the site. Black Friday and the holiday season are often good times to restock on energy bars, as well as the winter sales. The French Days in spring come next, before the season picks up again. To not miss out, you can check the Deals, Clearance and Special Offers, as well as the New Arrivals if you’re looking for the latest formats, or Shipped in 24h if you need to top up quickly before a race.

Frequently asked questions

Can you eat an energy bar on an empty stomach before running?

It is possible to have one before exertion, but it's better to eat it 30 to 45 minutes before starting to allow time for digestion to begin. On an early morning effort while fasting, some prefer to consume only a small amount to avoid digestive discomfort at the start of the run.

How many energy bars are needed for a marathon?

This depends on the runner's weight, pace, and digestive tolerance; there’s no fixed number that applies to everyone. Many runners alternate between bars and gels over the distance rather than relying solely on bars, to vary the textures and make consumption during the run easier.

Can an energy bar replace a meal?

No, an energy bar is designed for a temporary intake during or around effort, not as a substitute for a full meal. It complements an athlete’s diet without providing all the nutrients of a balanced meal.

What’s the difference between an energy bar and a protein bar?

An energy bar prioritises carbohydrates to provide quick energy during exertion, while a protein-rich bar is more focused on muscle recovery after the session. The choice therefore depends on when you plan to consume it.

Should you drink water while eating an energy bar?

Yes, drinking a little water at the same time helps with the digestion of the bar during exertion, especially if it is dense or high in fibre. It also helps to limit the dry mouth sensation that can occur while running.