Running SOS? Try SIS!

“Disclaimer: I received Science in Sport (SIS) energy gels to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!”

If you are anything like me, you’ve struggled to find an energy gel that you can actually stomach. For the first 4 years of my running journey I tried various energy gels and chews, hoping I’d find one that didn’t have the viscosity of sludge and taste like salty cough syrup. That was until I was wandering through the Rock n’ Roll Vegas expo two years ago and happened upon the Science in Sport (SIS) booth. The passionate representative began telling me the benefits of their gel and immediately had my attention when she mentioned it had a more water-like consistency. While I was leery, I gladly accepted a sample and decided to give it a try on my half marathon the next day.

Fast-forward a day, I was in the start corral and cautiously opened the top, squeezing a small amount out as a test. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the consistency was indeed much thinner and the apple flavor was bright and wasn’t overpowered in a sea of salt. I didn’t hit the proverbial wall during my race, my body seemed able to effectively use the extra energy boost which was a really nice change. Let’s just say I was immediately hooked on SIS and have been using them during my long training runs and races since then.

Recently I was provided with three different SIS products to test out: Go Energy + Caffeine (75mg)- Orange, Go Isotonic Energy Gel- Pineapple, and Go Energy + Electrolyte- Raspberry. Each gel was tested out during one of my longer runs (7-13.1 miles) and I definitely felt the quick energy boost. All of the flavors were tasty, however I’d have to say I enjoyed the pineapple gel the best as it had a nice, mild flavor which for me is important as I become sensitive to taste/smell during runs (weird, I know!).

So what did I accomplish with these gels over the course of a couple weeks? 60 miles of running and 130 minutes of elliptical, I’d say I put the gels to the test and they passed!

Let’s talk flavors! While I have not had a chance to try all of the various flavors, I’ve been able to test out a few over the years. While preferences differ, my favorites so far are Apple, Pineapple, and Espresso…yum! Some of their other fun flavors include Raspberry, Orange, Cola, Tropical, and Tutti-Frutti (I HAVE to try that one soon!!). What are you favorites???

What magic makes the SIS gels so effective at providing quick, easily digestible energy? I’m glad you asked! SIS has three different formulas that are designed to provide athletes with the boost they need to improve their performance. However, the common denominator in these formulas is the isotonic solution which allows not only for quicker absorption (aka energy faster!) but also less tummy troubles by not the stomach not having to bring additional fluid in to dilute the gel.

I’ve provided a high-level overview of the formulas below.

Go Isotonic Gels– This is the go-to gel for most endurance workouts, providing 22g of carbohydrates with under 1g of sugar per tube. For maximum effect it, is recommended to take one gel every 20 minutes of high-intensity exercise.
*Flavors include: Watermelon, Pineapple, Cherry, Tutti-Frutti, Vanilla, and two variety packs.

Go Energy Gels + Caffeine (75mg)- Using the same base formula as the Go Isotonic, this gel kicks it up with 75mg of caffeine to help athletes increase focus and alertness. Endurance or sprint-based exercise most benefit from this gel and results are optimized when taken about 30 minutes into a 90 minute workout. For activities under 90 minutes, SIS recommends using this gel 15-30 minutes before you begin or halfway through the exercise. *Bonus note: if there is going to be a really tough part of your workout, SIS recommends taking this gel 15-30 minutes before you hit that point.
*Flavors include: Orange, Citrus, Cola, Berry, and a variety pack.

Go Energy Gels + Caffeine (150 mg)- This caffeine gel further amplifies the energy kick with 150 mg of caffeine. This gel should be used for exercise lasting over 90 minutes and should be consumed one hour before the end of your exercise. Given the higher concentration of caffeine, SIS recommends only using this gel when a mental boost is needed.
*Flavors include: Espresso

Go Energy Gels + Electrolyte- This formula is similar to the Go Isotonic Energy Gel, but with a hydration boost of 300mg of key electrolytes. Athletes performing exercise in higher temperatures benefit from this gel by assisting the body in absorbing and retaining fluid. It is recommended to use 1-2 gels during a heavy sweat session or when exercising in hot weather.
*Flavors include: Lemon & Mint, Raspberry, and Salted Strawberry.

Want to give your workout a boost? Use code “BIBRAVE20GEL” for 20% off (not applicable to already discounted products or special offers.) https://www.scienceinsport.com/us/

But you don’t have to take my word for it, check out what my fellow BibRave Pro’s had to say:

Steph – https://bluegrassbamr.wordpress.com/2020/09/12/get-a-little-kick-with-science-in-sport-caffeineenergy-gels/
Sarah B – https://runningforbeers.wordpress.com/2020/09/20/4-reasons-to-take-science-in-sport-sis-energy-gels-on-your-next-long-run/
Kimberly H-https://kimrunsonthefly.blogspot.com/2020/09/all-fueled-up-with-sis.html
Amanda C. https://retrorunningmom.com/2020/09/22/make-the-perfect-fuel-plan-with-science-in-sport-gels-sis/
Scott S. – https://www.beastcoasttrailrunning.com/2020/09/science-in-sport-isotonic-gel-review-i.html
Shannon – http://girlsgotsole.com/blog/product-review-sis-gels/
Ken B. – https://runningwithken.rocks/2020/09/26/product-review-science-in-sport-gels/