I’ve been using Jelly Belly Sports Beans for fuel during my long runs and half-marathon fuel since I started running. I only drink water while I’m out there so I need something to replace electrolytes and to prevent me from bonking. The beans taste great to me and I definitely feel an energy boost about 20 minutes after eating them. During my last long run for some reason, trying to eat the sports beans was such a bother! It took me nearly two miles to get them all down (they must be consumed with water). The whole episode totally interrupted my flow so I’m experimenting with other options before the big race. I need to figure out my fueling strategy anyway and my long runs are getting longer so this is a great time to play around.
I had a 13-miler today and I tried Clif Shot Bloks in Black Cherry. I ate 3 bloks (1 serving) about 50 min into my run and the other three at about 1:30 into the run. These were a lot easier to consume since they are basically three big old gummy bears. They held up well in my Camelbak despite the heat. Finding a way to manage the packaging while on the run was a little cumbersome since I wasn’t eating the whole package at one time. I ended up holding the bloks in my hand which left them a bit sticky and gross.
The bloks didn’t give me the energized feeling of the Jelly Bellys. After the first serving I found myself waiting and waiting for my boost. It never seemed to come. I felt a little more juiced after the second round. I think I will try to eat 2 servings at once next time. If that doesn’t work then I will pass on these.
Does anyone have any running fuel suggestions? I am loathe to try any of those creamy gel things because I am funny about food consistency. It is only in the past few years that I’ve actually tried yogurt. I understand those gels are sort of yogurt-y and the thought of eating those things all warm and while I’m running? I can’t. I just can’t.
LOL we have the same phobia about the gels!!!
I always carried 2 water bottles.. one with plain water and the other with my special mix to help replenish and give me a boost. It’s been a while but I’ll see if I still have one of the packages in my pantry.
do you wear a belt/fanny pack on your long runs?
Interesting! Let me know what it is if you can remember. I’ve tended to stick to plain water during races because I don’t really like the taste of Powerade. I have started drinking some G2 after my run though. I already try to use my water sparingly because I want to avoid too many bathroom breaks. I wear a Camelbak Catalyst pak around my waist so I can bring one kind of fluid.
I love Accelerade or Nuun. I mix it with a bunch of ice so its diluted by the time I take a swig of it. Along with the blocks it keeps me going. As for the jellybeans, have you tried putting them in a baggie? That can help decrease the fumbling.
I too hate the gels. The consistency of them gets to me.
Thanks! I’m going to see if the running store has this Nuun stuff. Then maybe I can try eating a more food like fuel on my run like a LaraBar or something for carbs.
First off—LOVE the blog redesign! I recommend carrying coconut water for replenishing electrolytes during a run.
Thanks! You know I’ve heard good things about coconut water. I need to try it one day. I hate drinking my calories though!
Just read about you at RLAM. I wanted to congratulate you on becoming a Half Fanatic. I did the same thing (3 in 90 days) last summer. I’m #485 and love, love, love the shirt! Wear it with pride my friend!
3 in 90 during the summer?!? Yikes! I sadly don’t have a shirt yet because they only have S and L. Waiting on a M – hopefully I can get one by March.