Energy gels for running and endurance

What is an energy gel and what is it for?

An energy gel is a concentrated source of energy in the form of a paste or thick liquid, packaged in an individual sachet, usually made from quickly digestible carbohydrates. It is designed for athletes engaging in running, trail, or training, during outings where the body needs a quick energy boost without having to stop for food. Its compact size allows it to fit easily into a pocket of shorts or a running belt, unlike a bar that requires more chewing.

When and how to consume an energy gel during exercise?

The timing of consumption mainly depends on the duration and intensity of the effort. Generally, a gel is taken when energy reserves begin to drop, often during prolonged efforts like long-distance running, trail outings, or intense training sessions. It is recommended to accompany it with a little water to aid absorption and avoid a feeling of digestive heaviness.

Drinks, bars, gels: which format to choose according to the effort?

The gel is just one way to provide energy during running, trail, or training efforts. Depending on the duration of the session, individual digestion, or weather conditions, another format may be more suitable, and the following pages on the site allow for comparison of options:

• Energy drinks, useful for hydrating the body while providing a gradual energy boost.
• Energy bars, a more substantial format suitable for efforts where one can afford to chew before continuing.

For an overview of all products related to energy and endurance, the Energy / Endurance category groups all these formats together.

The Apurna gel available at Foot-Store

Foot-Store offers the Apurna Energy acerola orange gel in a 35g format, a product designed for a quick energy boost during effort. This type of gel fits easily into a running pocket and can be consumed in one go, making it a convenient format to take along on a running or trail outing or in a training session.

Good deals and times to stock up on sports nutrition

Prices and offers frequently change in sports nutrition, and several sections of the site allow you to keep track of updates without waiting for a specific date. The Black Friday and the year-end holidays are often times when nutrition ranges change, followed by the winter sales and the French Days in spring.

To spot current opportunities, check out the Good Deals, Sales, Clearance, and Special Offers pages regularly. If you're looking for a newly arrived item in the catalogue, the New Arrivals page lists the latest additions, and Shipped in 24h groups products available for quick dispatch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you drink water at the same time as an energy gel?

Yes, it is advised to take the gel with a sip of water. This helps with the digestion of the carbohydrate concentrate and reduces feelings of heaviness or intestinal discomfort during effort.

Can an energy gel be used for sports other than running?

Yes, an energy gel is not limited to running. It can be suitable for any endurance activity like trail running or a long training session, as long as the effort requires a quick energy intake without interrupting movement.

What is the difference between a gel and an energy bar?

The gel is consumed in one go and acts faster, making it practical during full effort. The bar needs to be chewed and digests more gradually, so it is more suitable for a moment when you can slow down for a few seconds.

How many gels can you take during a long effort?

This depends on the duration of the effort, the intensity, and each person’s digestive tolerance. It's best to space out the intake rather than take them closely together, and to test your tolerance during training before applying it in a race.

Can an energy gel expire?

Like any food product, an energy gel has a consumption date indicated on its packaging. It is recommended to check this date before use, especially if the gel has been stored for a long time in a sports bag.