The consumption of energy gels in the sporting world is very widespread. They owe their success above all to their composition (carbohydrates and other essential nutrients), as well as their ease of ingestion. Energy gels have really evolved in recent years and are now more fluid, no longer causing a "dry mouth" effect as could be the case before. They allow athletes to surpass themselves and achieve their goals throughout training and competitions.

Why use energy gels?

During intense exercise, your body uses two main sources of fuel to power the muscles: lipids (fats) and carbohydrates (sugars). Fat is an abundant resource, but its breakdown into energy is slow. It is therefore ineffective. Therefore, your body depends primarily on carbohydrates as an energy source. But the body only stores a limited quantity of carbohydrates in our muscles, so reserves are limited. If you don't focus on good nutrition, you can very quickly find yourself short of energy. Glycogen reserves will not be able to sustain effort over a long period (on average 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes). And if the reserves are empty, you will feel fatigue or risk hypoglycemia. During a race, a regular intake of carbohydrates is necessary to slow glycogen depletion and provide fuel to the muscles. Energy gels play this role. Rich in carbohydrates, they help replenish glycogen stores and provide carbohydrates to the muscles.

What is an energy gel?

Sports energy gels are energy products reserved for amateur and professional athletes. They contain nutritional elements, mainly carbohydrates, which can cover the energy needs of athletes during exercise and in the recovery phase. They are used in many sports, including running, cycling, triathlon or tennis.

When should you take it and how often?

The gels should be used from the start and every 5km to effectively combat the depletion of carbohydrate, vitamin and mineral reserves. To facilitate the intake periods, MX3 has designed numbered energy gels: START - 5km - 10km...
Consume your gel before each refill, 2 to 3 sips, to promote digestive comfort.
A tip is also to take a gel before an obstacle such as a climb or a pass.

The 3 main advantages of sports energy gels

1. Significant energy intake. The main advantage sought by athletes when consuming energy gels remains the energy supply they provide. A true source of carbohydrates and other nutrients, they provide athletes with a boost of energy and well-being allowing them to surpass themselves during exercise.

2. Easily transportable . One of the most practical aspects of the sports energy gel is undoubtedly its small size. In tube form, it can be taken anywhere with specially designed belts to transport them easily.

3. Variety of products . Marathon gels are available in many varieties and tastes. Furthermore, there are different formulas, with rapid or progressive effect, thus adapting to the runner's needs. Choose your gel based on its composition and the effects it provides.