May 29, 2023

GU Energy Gel Review from an 80 Mile-per-Week Runner

In the wild world of endurance sports, finding the right fuel to sustain energy levels and maximize performance is crucial. Here's our take on whether GU's the goo for the job.

Yowana Wamala

GU Energy Gel Review from an 80 Mile-per-Week Runner

In the wild world of endurance sports, finding the right fuel to sustain energy levels and maximize performance is crucial. Ever got to mile 20 of a marathon and felt like your legs were made of Jello? (Not that I'm speaking from personal experience or anything…) It's the role of products like GU to replace glycogen stores during exercise so that doesn't happen.

GU Energy Gels have become a popular choice for runners, offering a convenient and efficient way to replenish carbohydrates, electrolytes, and amino acids during intense physical exertion. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the key aspects of GU Energy Gels, including taste, effectiveness, and overall performance benefits.

Background on The Reviewer

I'm an amateur athlete, train heavy and eat a lot. I run anywhere from 30 to 80 miles in a typical week, while hitting the gym 2 to 5 times for crossfit-style strength and conditioning workouts (full disclosure: I might not hit the gym as much during peak running season). I'm in my late 20s, and I compete in road and trail races for fun. I've run every popular road racing distance—5k, 10k, half marathon full marathon—and some weird distances as well like 4 mile (4 on the Fourth in Charlotte) and the 15k (my proudest PR).

Now let's dive in.

Benefits of GU

Here are some of the reasons we like GU as an option for you in the crowded energy gel market.

1. Wide Variety of Flavors: Like a Kid in A Candy Store

GU Energy Gels come in a wide range of flavors that span the candy shop spectrum. Whether you enjoy fruity flavors like Strawberry Banana and Mandarin Orange or prefer more decadent options like Chocolate Outrage and Salted Caramel, there's something for everyone (as long as you have an aggressive sweet tooth). The taste is generally pleasant, although some flavors can be a tad medicinal. If you're choosing GU as your main gel, the variety allows you to switch things up during long workouts or races, preventing taste fatigue.

2. Texture and Consistency: Easy to Get Down Without Water

The consistency of GU Energy Gels is smooth and easy to get down during a hard effort, with a gel-like texture that isn't too thick or watery. They're packaged in tear-top pouches similar to most competitors, making them easy to open while ripping the last 5k during a half marathon. The gels are designed to be taken without water, but we prefer to take a few sips when available to wash the aftertaste away.

3. Quick-Digesting Carbs: Energy Boost and Performance Maintenance

The main benefit of GU Energy Gels is the energy boost they provide via fast-digesting carbs. The gels are formulated with a blend of carbohydrates (maltodextrin and fructose), electrolytes (sodium and potassium), and amino acids (leucine and valine), depending on the variant you buy. This blend is meant to help replenish glycogen stores, maintain hydration, and reduce muscle breakdown during prolonged workouts. Ideally, quick absorption of nutrients results in a noticeable surge in energy levels, enabling you to sustain intensity and perform at your best.

4. Convenience: Easy to Carry, Grip and Rip

The compact size and tear-top packaging make GU Energy Gels incredibly convenient and easy to carry. They can be stored in pockets, running belts, or cycling jersey pouches, allowing for quick access during training sessions or races. The tear-top design enables effortless consumption without the need for additional tools. The durability of the packaging ensures the gels won't burst or leak, providing peace of mind during intense activities.

5. Availability: They're Everywhere

Simply put, GU is everywhere. It's at Dicks Sporting Goods, Amazon, road races, maybe even your local grocery store. If a retailer carries only one brand of energy gel, it's this. If for no other reason than that it's everywhere, you should get familiar with GU and comfortable taking it every so often, as it's likely it will be your only option one day.

Drawbacks and Considerations

Here are some items to consider before one click–purchasing a 72-pack of GU from Amazon.

1. Digestibility: Only One Way to Find Out...

While GU Energy Gels are formulated to be easily digestible, not everyone gets along well with maltodextrin. GU's formulation is meant to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal distress during exercise, but you'll have to try for yourself to see if it works well for you. As with any energy gel, individual tolerances may vary. We recommend that you test gels during your long training runs to see if they suit your digestive system before using them in races or crucial events.

2. Ingredient Quality: Not the Purest

If steering clear of preservatives and additives is important to you, then there are better energy gel options on the market. Gels like Huma, Spring and Muir are formulated with whole foods as their carbohydrate energy sources, while Maurten offers a cleaner take on processed fast-digesting carbs.

Final Thoughts

GU Energy Gels have established themselves as a go-to fuel source for endurance athletes seeking a quick and effective energy boost. With their wide variety of flavors, smooth consistency, and impressive performance benefits, they provide a reliable source of sustenance during intense physical activities. While the inclusion of maltodextrin and additives may be a consideration for some, the convenience, portability, and overall efficacy of GU Energy Gels make them a solid choice.

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