What are the best energy gels for cyclists?

Estimated read time: 4,2 minutes.

In this article we are going to help you find the best energy gels for cyclists , which can provide you with the energy you need to improve your performance and achieve your goals.

Ideal for intense training and/or long-distance outings, whether on the road or in the mountains, energy gels are an essential supplement for cyclists of all levels, which will prevent the dreaded "crashes", guarantee constant performance and promote recovery.

If you are looking for a quick and efficient supply of energy during your rides, read on to discover which are the best cycling energy gels that will help you maximize your performance.

What will the best cycling energy gel give you?

The best energy gel for cycling will be a quick and effective solution to maintain good energy levels , something essential in such a demanding sport, which requires significant physical effort that makes the body consume large reserves of glycogen, which is the main fuel for the muscles.

The best cycling energy gels are designed to:

• Provide quick energy through easily absorbed carbohydrates.
  
  
• Prevent fatigue and maintain intensity during exercise.
  
  
• Replenish key nutrients such as electrolytes and essential vitamins to prevent cramping and improve recovery.

Features that the best energy gels for cycling should have

With an increasingly large and diverse range of gels on offer, adapted to the different needs of each cyclist, these are some of the ingredients that the best energy gel for cyclists should have :

• Cyclodextrin : An advanced carbohydrate that allows for sustained energy release and efficient glycogen replenishment, reducing gastrointestinal issues.
  
  
• Electrolytes : such as sodium, potassium and magnesium, to maintain fluid balance and prevent cramps.
  
  
• B vitamins : essential for energy production and combating fatigue.
  
  
• Caffeine (optional): improves concentration and enhances performance at key moments during the ride.

In addition, a good energy gel should be easily digestible , which makes it easy to consume even during the most intense efforts, preventing possible digestive problems that would directly affect your performance.

When and how to take an energy gel?

Choosing a quality gel is just as important as knowing when and how to take an energy gel , since the moment you take it can make a big difference in your performance.

• Before the ride : taking an energy gel 15-20 minutes before starting to pedal will help you start the ride with your glycogen reserves at their fullest.
  
  
• During the route : another option is to consume them at those times when you notice a drop in energy or every 45-60 minutes on long journeys. It is essential to take them with water to facilitate their absorption and prevent stomach discomfort.
  
  
• After exercise : Some gels also contain ingredients that promote muscle recovery, such as essential amino acids or proteins.

3 of the best energy gels for cyclists

If you want to incorporate them into your training routine, take note, because we have selected 3 of the best energy gels for cycling , both for their flavor, as well as for their composition and effectiveness, which in our opinion, are the most recommended to improve your performance.

1 – Energy Gel by Be Levels

Considered by many to be the best energy gel for cycling , Be Levels Energy Gel features an advanced formula designed specifically for endurance sports, such as cycling or running, with which you can maximize your energy in high and medium intensity efforts, optimizing both performance and recovery.

A complete solution to meet nutritional needs during exercise, Energy Gel contains:

• Maltodextrin and cyclodextrin : two carbohydrates that ensure a rapid and sustained supply of energy throughout the route.
  
  
• Fructose : ideal for maintaining good blood sugar levels, avoiding energy spikes and drops.
  
  
• Essential electrolytes : to replenish mineral salts and prevent dehydration and cramps.
  
  
• B vitamins : contribute to the reduction of fatigue and energy metabolism.
  
  
• Natural extracts : such as caffeine, to enhance concentration in the most critical moments.

In addition, it has a compact and easy-to-open format that allows you to carry it in your backpack or directly in your jersey, making it easy to consume.

2 – Nrgy Unit Gel energy gel by Nduranz

Another of the most outstanding is Nrgy Unit Gel from Nduranz, an energy gel with a large amount of carbohydrates in the correct proportion, which promotes hydration.

Plus, it has an advanced electrolyte blend that helps replace the minerals you lose through sweating.

3 – 226 High Energy Gel

Complete our ranking of the best energy gels for cycling 226 High Energy Gel, a gel that stands out mainly for its 50 grams of CHO , with a formulation that contains cyclodextrin, a carbohydrate that promotes good absorption and digestibility.

This gel combines different complex and simple CHO sources in a 1:1 ratio , such as maltodextrin, glucose and sucrose, which allows us to increase the maximum limit of CHO that we can process in the stomach.

If you want to know the best energy gels, check it out here .