Rating of the best energy gels for sports for 2024

Energy gels belong to the category of sports nutrition that is needed by people whose lifestyle is associated with a constant expenditure of energy. This applies to runners, triathletes and other athletes. Carbohydrate replenishment is necessary to maintain the pace over a long distance, so as not only not to fall from fatigue in the middle of the path, but also to take the finishing acceleration.

History of origin

The first mention of the gel dates back to the mid-80s of the 19th century. It was called Leppin Squeezy. Physiologist Tim Noakesom (Cape Town) and multiple winner of the Comrades Ultra Marathon Bruce Fordysom are considered to be the pioneers. The composition was used to restore strength. A little time passed, and the market was filled with another analogue - Gu Energy Gel. The name of the drink has survived to this day, thanks to its wide popularity among athletes.

What it is

Athletes begin to accumulate energy reserves seven to ten days before the start of the competition. There is a nutritional adjustment associated with an increase in the amount of carbohydrates in the body. Some of them are deposited in the blood as glucose (approximately 80 kC), some are accumulated in muscles (1200 - 1800 kC) and liver (300 - 400 kC). Constant daily stress leads to the expenditure of carbohydrates. This is fraught with loss of strength, especially for runners: the legs become sluggish and heavy, dizziness appears, concentration of attention worsens, the pulse rises, the pace decreases, which leads to the need to leave the race ahead of schedule.

Energy gels with both positive and negative properties will help you to regain strength, open a second wind, help you cross the home straight and climb the pedestal:

Advantages	disadvantages
They are quickly absorbed.	High price.
Easy to swallow.	You need to drink it down.
No need to chew.	They do not restore chlorine, potassium and sodium, the volume of which in the body decreases with significant loads.
Carbohydrates are compactly concentrated.	There are problems with the disposal of containers.
The stomach is not full.
Withstand low and high temperatures.
Variety of flavors.
Calculations before the start are made easier.

Terms of use

Experts recommend following these rules to achieve the best result:

1. The first packet is consumed one hour after the start of the competition.Do not wait for a state of hunger. The main thing is to supply energy in a timely manner.
2. Subsequent sachets are consumed every half hour or at other intervals indicated on the package.
3. Drink water to speed up the conversion of carbohydrates into energy. Enough 150 - 250 g of pure water.
4. The advice of professionals is not to wash down the gel with an energy drink. This will lead to problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
5. You need to develop a meal plan in advance. It is not necessary to use such formulations for marathon or running. Novice athletes receive recharge from representatives of advertising companies only at food points.
6. Distances from 5 to 10 km do not include the use of gel.

The energy gel is useless for those who exercise at low intensity. In this case, the energy released from fats is sufficient for training with minimal or medium stress.

How to choose and what to look for

Energy formulations differ in terms of use. They are produced by:

• for fitness;
• for running;
• for a marathon;
• for cyclists;
• universal.

Despite the variety of options offered, their composition is almost identical. The main components are:

• sugar;
• taurine;
• caffeine;
• fructose;
• flavor enhancer;
• fixer;
• extracts of vitamins E and C.

Mistakes in the choice should not be allowed. This is fraught with a deterioration in well-being. Before making a final purchase decision, in addition to studying reviews and ratings, you need to pay attention to the following main components:

1. Composition. The presence of caffeine will help you to cheer up, but you cannot overdo it. Overdose can lead to problems with the adrenal gland and stomach. Pay attention to the type of sugar. It is better to choose the popular maltodextrin-based model, which has a mild taste. Artificially obtained. In some formulations, fructose may be present, but not as a main element, but only an additional one. If a person has an intolerance to this component, do not abuse such a gel.
2. Packaging. The best manufacturers use two options: resealable tubes and sachets. Available in sizes 25, 50, 75, 125 and 500 ml.

Alternative energy sources

Gels cannot be the sole source of nutrition for athletes. They are comfortable, but you shouldn't forget about other options. The best help will be nuts, bananas, oranges, exotic foods, potatoes. It is not recommended to eat unhealthy foods: chips, sweets, cookies, cola.

Alternative options are considered to be:

1. Fruit purees. They are distinguished by their naturalness and ease of digestion. The action is faster than maltodextin and faster than honey. They are easy to digest and have a pleasant taste.
2. Nut paste. There are a lot of calories. Delicious, but absorbed slowly.
3. Baby food. The main difference is the lack of additives. The cost exceeds its counterparts.

The selection criteria are different for everyone. The main rule is one: you can not experiment in competitions, it is better to test during training.

What other substitutes for energy gels are there? We offer common options:

• dried apricots;
• raisins;
• marmalade;
• almond;
• a variety of "solid" foods.

Food should be high in calories, easy to digest, not lead to heaviness in the stomach. Personal intolerance to individual components is of no small importance.

Making a gel with your own hands at home

Popular sports gels are expensive. For a package of 30 sachets, you will have to pay $ 180. Budget models are of lower quality and efficiency. According to buyers, the composition can be prepared independently using step-by-step instructions posted on the Internet. The advantages of a homemade energy drink are as follows:

• insignificant costs;
• lack of chemical impurities.

Recommended ingredients:

• honey;
• agave nectar;
• maple syrup;
• brown rice syrup;
• black molasses.

These can be purchased at the supermarket at an affordable price.

Where to Buy Energy Gels

The athlete needs to decide which company is better to buy products, and visit a specialized outlet. There they will offer a choice of different types, depending on the taste preferences and material well-being of the buyer. The average price of popular branded models "bites", however, in terms of characteristics, they are superior to similar products.

You can order the gel online in the online store, having previously studied the rating of quality goods, functionality, and review the options offered. The main thing is to decide what they are for. This type of acquisition is fraught with misunderstandings. Substandard fakes or the wrong set may come. I'll have to cancel the order.

Ratings of the best energy gels for sports for 2024

Vegan

Energy gel elite

The use of the product implies a lightning-fast boost of vivacity thanks to a nutritious formula containing fructose and maltodextrin. Designed for sports. Helps you maximize your workout. Tested by Informed - Sport. The results showed the absence of prohibited components of natural origin. The audit was carried out taking into account the requirements of WADA. The brand is Myprotein. Available in packaging from 0.5 to 1 kg. Contains vitamins B6 and B12, carbohydrates, maltodextrin, fructose. Used by athletes for jogging.

How much does the item cost? The sellers offer buyers at a price of 1650 rubles.

• taste variety;
• relieves fatigue;
• increases endurance;
• improves well-being;
• liquid;
• easy to digest;
• instant action;
• normalizes the immune system;
• safe;
• does not require drinking;
• fast delivery.

• not installed.

Marathon

The gel is pineapple, cherry, apple, fruit, orange, chocolate and so on. Belongs to the isotonic category. Designed and patented by British scientists. Fluid. Provides a person with additional energy. You can not drink water. Differs in instant action, efficiency, is quickly absorbed by the body, penetrating through the walls of the stomach. The maximum dose is 3 sachets per hour.

The average cost is 1270 rubles.

• pleasant taste;
• fast action;
• availability of a quality certificate;
• each batch is tested;
• absence of prohibited substances;
• no steroids;
• improves well-being;
• fills with energy.

• absent.

GU Energy gel

Acquired by those who need a quick and convenient way to restore energy lost in training and competition. They are easy to digest, contribute to the flow of energy, provide long-term support for the body. The composition includes electrolytes, carbohydrates, fructose. BCAAs are used to relieve muscle fatigue. Available with and without caffeine. A serving contains 100 calories.

Price - negotiable, depending on the batch of purchased goods.

• different tastes;
• lack of gluten;
• fast digestibility;
• carbohydrate;
• environmentally friendly material used in the manufacture;
• copes with muscle fatigue;
• replenishes the supply of electrolytes;
• simple autopsy.

• absent.

GO Isotonic Energy Gels

The carbohydrate-based isotonic gel is the brainchild of British scientists. The product has a patent. The composition is liquid, it is not necessary to drink it with water. Additional energy source. Helper for competitors and long training sessions. Doesn't take up much space, you can take it with you. Thanks to a special digestible form, it instantly penetrates into the human body through the walls of the stomach, increasing the energy potential. Easy to swallow, pleasant aftertaste. It is not recommended to use more than three sachets per hour. Stored in a cool place. The products have been tested and certified by the Informed Sport agency.

The average cost is 2367 rubles.

• availability of a quality certificate;
• safety;
• comfort of use;
• fast action;
• absence of prohibited substances;
• does not apply to steroids;
• complies with WADA requirements.

• not installed.

Vegetarian

HIGH5

The manufacturer has launched the production of banana, orange, citrus, mango compositions. Which one is better to buy depends on the individual preferences of the person. A description of each tube is on the company's website. A comparative table is also offered for review. It has a light texture with a delicate flavor of exotic fruits. The composition includes natural juice. The sweetness index is optimal. Suitable for cyclocross, time trial, Turing.

You can purchase it at a price of 1157 rubles.

• easy to open;
• quickly absorbed;
• does not harm the stomach;
• lack of caffeine and gluten;
• instant burst of energy;
• naturalness;
• pleasant taste;
• consistency.

• not identified.

Carbosnack (apricot)

Used by people who feel physically and mentally overworked. Tastes good. Available with various fruit flavors: lemon, blueberry, green apple. Provides the body with energy quickly thanks to the presence of glycine and taurine. The basis of the product is monosaccharides. There are no minerals in the product, which allows you to combine it with sports drinks when participating in training. Promotes postponement of physical fatigue, enhances neuromuscular function. The maximum dose is 1 tube per day. Store in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, keep the room temperature up to 30 degrees.

Retailers offer goods at a price of 124 rubles per tube.

• flap on the package;
• quick provision of the body with energy;
• you can open the package several times;
• fast action;
• without GMO;
• has a positive effect on the brain;
• is not doping;
• optimizes neuro - muscle transmission.

• need to be consumed within 24 hours;
• requires the use of a large amount of liquid;
• it is forbidden to take children under 3 years old.

Liquid Energy BCAA Sponser

Highly concentrated product containing fructose, glucose, taurine and BCAAs, fortified with potassium and sodium. BCAA amino acid supplies the muscles with "fuel", is stored in the body for a long time, supports muscle synthesis, and helps the athlete recover after training.

The average cost is 254 rubles per tube.

• helps muscles to work;
• reduces fatigue;
• has regenerative properties;
• restores strength;
• lack of preservatives;
• inexpensive;
• convenient packing of 70 g.

• not installed.

Aspartame free

PULS

The package contains 24 sachets of 40 g. The gel belongs to the category of universal. Does not contain aspartame. The composition includes sodium chloride, citric acid, maltodextrin, fructose, water, preservatives, flavorings. A bit luscious. Promotes recuperation, improves the immune system. Belongs to the category of sports nutrition. One sachet is applied per hour.

Price is negotiable.

• delicious;
• comfortable in using;
• shelf life - 24 months;
• medium consistency;
• does not require drinking;
• beautiful packaging;
• sweet but not cloying;
• there is no addiction;
• sold in specialized stores.

• not installed.

Multipower Multi Carbo Boost

New from the manufacturer. The composition contains carbohydrates with varying degrees of digestibility, as well as BCAAs, citric acid, B vitamins, flavors. Designed to restore energy potential, improve leg muscles. Gives strength, improves endurance. Accepted by both professional athletes and beginners.

The average cost is 330 rubles per bag.

• increases physical activity;
• fast-acting agent;
• inexpensive;
• easy to use;
• safety;
• quickly assimilated.

• not installed.

GU Roctane Energy gel +

Suitable for heavy training and competition. Vanilla - orange flavor is preferred. The box contains 24 sticks of 32 g each. The company also produces a product with the taste of pineapple, chocolate - coconut, strawberry - kiwi, cherry - lime, lemonade, tutti - frutti. The composition of Gu Energy gel is taken as a basis, where a large amount of sodium is added, which allows maintaining the water-salt balance of the athlete. The presence of branched-chain amino acids prevents muscle damage and helps reduce fatigue. Taurine amino acid supports heart rate during prolonged exercise.

The retailers offer the product at a price of 3920 rubles per package.

• restores water and salt balance;
• high amino acid content;
• does not have a negative effect on the stomach;
• stabilizes the work of the heart;
• forms an intramuscular buffer;
• accelerates the absorption of carbohydrates;
• increases endurance;
• Suitable for playing and combat sports, running, crossfit, swimming.

• absent.

Liquid Energy DCAA (strawberry - banana)

The energy gel contains complex carbohydrates, taurine, potassium, sodium, BCAAs. The capacity of one tube is 70 g, the quantity per package is 20 pieces. Highly concentrated product. It is used for active long-term loads that take strength and energy. Helps to restore strength, improve health, restore the correct functioning of the heart. It is used once every 120 minutes, without a doctor's prescription. It is washed down with water.

The packaging is sold at a price of 5080 rubles.

• lack of preservatives;
• safety;
• ease of use;
• supports muscle synthesis;
• reduces fatigue;
• restores strength;
• increases stamina;
• the presence of regenerating qualities.

• not identified.

Liquid Energy Plus + Caffeine 50 mg (Caramel)

Promotes even and gradual energy consumption. Energy drink of high concentration without pronounced taste. Manufacturing form - liquid. The presence of functional components: inositol, caffeine, taurine, vitamins. Long lasting energy source. It is used by athletes to increase endurance and improve energy supply.

The average price is 4450 rubles per package.

• portioned sachets;
• convenient packaging;
• balances the carbohydrate spectrum;
• easy to digest;
• instantly supplies the body with energy;
• not afraid of temperature changes;
• improves cell nutrition;
• normalizes blood glucose levels;
• removes toxins;
• stabilizes the central nervous system;
• Swiss quality.

• significant price.

Gel Endurance B.C.A.A. (strawberry and grenadine)

The composition contains complex and simple carbohydrates, natural flavors, vitamins, amino acids, acidity regulator, stabilizers, ginseng extract, guarana and sodium. The main task is to process nutrients into energy, reduce fatigue, and restore strength. Applies every 30 minutes. It is washed down with water.

The average cost is 207 rubles per bag.

• improves muscle performance;
• recommended for participants in all competitions in various sports;
• safety;
• naturalness;
• quickly absorbed;
• convenient to use.

• absent.

Energy Super gel (cola + caffeine)

Contains caffeine. An additional source of energy and mineral salts. Essential for recuperation after active exercise. Only the right ingredients are present. The package contains 33 sachets. The total volume is 1250 ml. The effect is instant. The duration of the action is long. It is quickly absorbed by the stomach due to its low osmolarity. Provides mineral nutrition for muscles. It is taken every 15 to 30 minutes. It is necessary to drink clean water. To ensure comfortable use, the tip should be opened with a movement from top to bottom or parallel to the sachet.

The average cost is 130 rubles per stick.

• lack of gluten, lactose and sweeteners;
• additional action item;
• increases concentration of attention;
• enhances the energy effect;
• easy to consume;
• does not have a negative effect on the stomach;
• price quality.

• not identified.

Syformx - Plosiv gel (orange)

A concentrated product based on carbohydrates that vary in absorption rate. Taking the product helps to replenish the body with energy for a long time. Prevents the onset of muscle cramps during intense sports activities leading to profuse sweating. The extract of red grapes present in the composition promotes vasodilation, abundantly saturates muscle tissue with oxygen. Small bags are convenient to use without interrupting your activities. It is supposed to drink a significant amount of liquid so as not to disrupt the work of the gastrointestinal tract. Duration of admission is 1 month.

The average price is 152 rubles.

• helps to improve energy metabolism;
• prevents the occurrence of muscle cramps;
• easy to use;
• a source of magnesium and polyphenolic compounds;
• combined with many drugs;
• safe;
• quality;
• reliability.

• should not be taken during pregnancy, individual intolerance, breastfeeding.

Surge Pre - Match Gel (SIS) Tropic

The product line was produced under the guidance of Manchester United specialists. Used by athletes in playing sports, athletes. Contains beta - alanine, arginine, caffeine, citrulline mallate, carbohydrates. Food is taken half an hour before the start of the competition so that caffeine levels can reach their peak. It is recommended to use one sachet per day. Contains vitamins and carbohydrates. Reduces the feeling of fatigue before the final dash.

Price - negotiable, depending on the amount of purchased goods.

• increases energy supply;
• reduces stress;
• certified;
• safe;
• used with GO Hydro;
• does not contain any prohibited substances.

• not installed.

No sucralose

Energy Super gel Squeezy mix (1250 ml)

The composition contains caffeine, as well as the most necessary components for the fruitful work of an athlete. It is sold in packaging (12 bags of 3 g). Helps to endure high-intensity physical activity during prolonged workouts. It has an instant energetic effect that lasts for a long period of time. Promotes increased concentration, endurance. It is easily absorbed, does not have a negative impact on the digestive tract.

Price - negotiable, depending on the volume of the order.

• lack of gluten, sweeteners, lactose;
• low osmolarity;
• energizes muscles;
• easily squeezed out of the bag;
• convenient to dispose of packaging;
• safety;
• reliability;
• quality.

• absent.

Gu Roctane Energy Gel + Energy Flask

The manufacturer has taken care of a variety of flavor combinations: pineapple, blueberry - pomegranate, strawberry - kiwi, chocolate - sea salt, vanilla - orange, cherry - lime, chocolate - coconut, tutti - frutti, and so on. Ideal sports food for competition and action-packed workouts. Available in sticks of 32 g. 24 pieces in a package. The presence of a significant content of sodium electrolyte allows you to restore the water-salt balance. Differs in a high content of amino acids.

The average cost is 3965 rubles per package.

• supports the work of the heart;
• forms an intramuscular buffer;
• eliminates the accumulation of decay products;
• increases endurance;
• Suitable for runners, cyclists, swimmers, martial arts athletes, crossfit athletes, playing sports;
• helps to quickly absorb carbohydrates;
• no stomach problems.

• not identified.

Conclusion

The main purpose of energy gels is to provide the professional athlete, beginner or average person with an active lifestyle, easily digestible food to maintain physical activity for a long time. It is considered an excellent source of fast energy. It helps to improve well-being, increase vitality and physical capabilities, and satisfy hunger. He is taken to training, jogging, marathon.

They are popular with athletes who enjoy playing sports and long distance races. Help people during aerobics. The composition includes mainly natural ingredients: maltodextrin, citric acid, caffeine, B vitamins, which will help to quickly restore strength, relieve muscle fatigue, make the heart work in a measured rhythm, and provide an opportunity to continue exercising without reducing activity.

Products can be purchased at specialized retail outlets, place an order in an online store, or make a composition at home. How to cook it yourself, the Internet or experts in this matter will tell you.