'Keep That Same Energy': RUNGRL’s Favorite Running Energy Supplements

By Na’Tasha Jones, Co-founder and Chief Content Officer

Jelly beans, gels, powders or even good old fashioned coffee--everyone has a favorite way to stay energized throughout a long run or race day.

Proper fueling can make or break your performance on race day. Likewise, during training, it’s crucial to find the right supplements for you and learn what works for your body. But with so many options out there, how can you know where to begin or what to try?

We asked the RUNGRL community* about their favorite energy and hydration supplements for training and on race day. Here are their favorites.

Skratch Labs Sport Energy Chews and Nutrition Bars

Our RUNGRLs loved these supplements and snacks as part of race training. This all-natural brand, created by a sports scientist and cycling coach, promises to develop “food and drinks that taste great, that are made from real ingredients and that solve problems for active people.” RUNGRLs noted that the sport energy chews are great for race day and the nutrition bars are great for staying fueled on long runs.

“I swore by Skratch Labs chews and energy bars for my 2019 training season,” said Shiara Robinson, athlete (@shiararobinson).

Nuun Sport

Runners shared that they loved the variety of flavors of Nuun Sport and the fact that they can be used daily for different needs, including as hydration aids, for immunity support (Nuun Immunity) and as energy boosters (Nuun Energy).

Science in Sport (SIS) Gels

Our ladies love these gels. The GO Isotonic Energy Gels are designed to support you during any length race, but especially help prevent fatigue at longer distances. They’re designed to be consumed without water, making them perfect to pack on race day and help deliver “an easily digestible and quick supply of carbohydrates for energy during exercise”.

Coffee and Other Natural Boosters

Believe it or not, a lot of our community loves good, old-fashioned coffee as a pick-me-up before runs and workouts. While the effects won’t last through very long runs, it is great for getting that boost you need to get up and get out there, especially in the morning. Hint: go for black coffee to avoid any unwanted dairy-related effects on the run.

Krishna Curry, Los Angeles strength and running coach (@krishnacurry), recommends Red Beet Powder as a natural source nitrates to boost runs. Shape Magazine explains, “packed with nitrates, which your body converts to nitric oxide, beetroot enhances blood vessel dilation, increasing your blood flow capacity and lowering the amount of oxygen your muscles need.”

We found this version from LiquiVive that contains BCAA Amino Acids, Vitamin B12 & L-Arginine for improved endurance and circulation.

Sleep

We had to say it! Sometimes, what you really need to get your energy up is more sleep. While you’re out there working hard and running all the miles, there’s no substitute for getting enough Z’s. You simply cannot out-caffeinate fatigue. Get proper sleep on the regular and be sure to log in a few extra hours before and after long runs and races. You’ll be guaranteed to see improved performance.

Energy Products to Avoid

Runners also shared what’s definitely NOT working for them on the energy front. This includes products with questionable ingredients or just an unreasonable or unsafe amount of caffeine. Think high-caffeine energy drinks “with wings” or that’ll make you a “rock star”.

Krishna noted, “These drinks dehydrate you and cause adrenal fatigue.”

While keeping your energy up is important, anything you put into your body should be taken with care and consideration of proper health FIRST. Consult your doctor for recommendations on maintaining energy, and if any product is causing an adverse reaction, discontinue use IMMEDIATELY.**

What are your go-to energy supplements and products? Be sure to share with us in the comments below along with why you love them.

*Note: Products and suggestions are based on a social media survey conducted by RUNGRL on Instagram in November 2019. This post is not sponsored.

Products in this post are linked as affiliate links. RUNGRL may receive compensation for purchases made through these links. See full terms of use for details.

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