BEFORE
Starting your marathon with proper hydration and energy ensures you stay strong in the early miles. Pre-loading with carbs and electrolytes is key for long-distance performance.
- Roctane Energy Drink Mix: Hydrate with electrolytes and fast-absorbing carbs to build a strong energy base.
- Energy Stroopwafel: Provides complex and simple carbs to fuel you through the first miles without weighing you down.
DURING
Managing your energy and hydration during the marathon is crucial to avoid hitting “the wall”. Consistent refueling keeps your glycogen stores up and prevents fatigue.
- Roctane Energy Gels: Take every 30-45 minutes for a steady supply of carbs to maintain your energy and avoid hitting the wall.
- Hydration Tabs: Keep Hydration Tabs in your bottle to help replenish electrolytes, reduce the risk of cramps, and keep your muscles functioning optimally throughout the race.
AFTER
Recovery is critical post-race to help your muscles repair and restore lost essential nutrients. Proper recovery helps you bounce back faster and get ready for future training or races.
- Roctane Protein Recovery Drink Mix: Rebuild muscles and replenish glycogen after the race.
- Magnesium Plus Capsules: Replenish key vitamins and minerals to promote recovery and reduce downtime.
GU ATHLETE REVIEW
“I like to chase a Lemonade Roctane Gel with a serving of Summit Tea Roctane Energy Drink Mix to nail 80g of carbs/500mg of sodium (I'm a salty sweater) per hour, Arnold Palmer style.” - Stefanie Flippin, Ultra Runner
GU MARATHON SUPPLEMENT FAQS
What supplements should I take when training for a marathon?
For marathon training, essential supplements include BCAAs to aid muscle recovery, electrolytes like Hydration Tabs to maintain adequate hydration, and Energy Gels to provide fast-acting carbohydrates during long training runs. Protein Recovery Drinks are also crucial to promote muscle repair after intense training sessions.
What do marathon runners use for energy?
While all GU products will work, we see marathon runners primarily use Energy Gels, Energy Chews, and Electrolyte Drink Tabs during the race. These products provide quick-digesting carbohydrates and essential electrolytes to sustain energy, prevent cramping, and combat fatigue over the 26.2 miles.
Do you need Energy Gels for a marathon?
While all GU products will work, Roctane Energy Gels are commonly used during a marathon to replenish glycogen stores and provide quick energy. They contain more amino acids and electrolytes than our Original Energy Gels, making them perfect for longer races like a marathon. Consuming Gels every 30-45 minutes helps maintain stamina and avoid hitting "the wall."