This section includes my personal review of new gear and nutrition I use throughout my training. I'm looking for the right mix of things to help me feel strong during training and ultimately in races. Scroll down for most recent review.
(This page includes affiliate links and if you choose to click and purchase, I will receive a commission.)
GU Energy Gels:
I used a GU Chocolate Outrage energy gel on my first long run of 8 miles back in April. This specific flavor was caffeine free. I only took one with me and ate it at about the 4 mile mark or around 50 minutes into my run. I didn't have water, but this particular gel was easy to consume. It tasted like chocolate frosting, so I didn't mind the taste.
I don't know whether I was supposed to feel a jolt/boost or whether my energy level would be sustained. But, I really didn't feel too much of a change. Maybe I used it incorrectly. I'll try it again and see what happens...
Clif Shot Blocks (Test 1):
I went for a 7.25 mile run last weekend. My running buddy gave me a couple of Clif Shot Block Tropical Punch packs. These are supposed to have the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. I took 3 blocks around 4.5 miles or 45 minutes into my run. I felt fine, but don't remember feeling a significant difference from how I normally feel around 5-6 miles.
I'll have to try these again and instead of using just 3 blocks, I'll try 6 next time and see what happens.
Clif Shot Blocks (Test 2):
Ok... I just came back from my 8 mile run and just finished a refreshing ice bath... Boy, did I need it. Instead of waiting until mile 4 to take my first set of blocks, I took the remaining 3 Tropical Punch blocks from my run last week around mile 3. My Map My Run app timed me at around 33 minutes. I must say that I was ok at that point and continued feeling pretty good even around mile 5. Mile 5 was my fastest split, so I would assume that this was when the shot blocks were well into my system. I took another set of blocks (Cran-Razz Flavored) around mile 7. Instead of chewing these, I decided to just let them melt in my mouth... It wasn't bad and I was still moving pretty steadily.
I guess my verdict at this point is: Because I had no GI problems, cramping issues or other problems, the Clif Shot Blocks seem to work. These are safe for me to use.
Honey Stinger Waffles:
DING!! DING!! DING!! We have a winner, ladies and gentlemen!! I've been hearing about these for the longest time and everyone raves about Honey Stinger Waffles. I had to try them... So, I purchased a few. Strawberry, Vanilla and Honey. Let me tell you... When I went into my running store and put these on the counter, the associate told me that he doesn't just use them for when he runs. They are so good, he puts them in his ICE CREAM!! If I weren't already sold from what I heard from others already, I was sold then. So, I couldn't even wait to get it home. I tried the Strawberry and... everyone was right!! Truly amazing!!
This one was only 160 calories and tasted like it was homemade!! It's texture was that of a soft baked cookie, looks like a waffle and get this... it's organic (according to the box)!! Try them out and let me know what you think.. I give these a 10!!
Hammer Nutrition Recoverite (Test 1):
Last week, I went into my running store and purchased one packet of the Hammer Nutrition Recoverite. I purchased the Citrus flavor. I was surprised to notice that it stated on the packet that it included milk. (So, those of you, who are lactose intolerant... Stay away from this stuff)
Anyway, after a long run of 9 miles, I took this packet to aid in my recovery. I mixed the powdery substance in my shake bottle with 8 oz of water. I must say, I love the 12 oz shake bottle I use. It's extremely convenient.
Side Note: I used to drink Muscle Milk after a workout. Muscle Milk has a significant amount of carbs compared to what I use now and I wouldn't suggest using the Muscle Milk if you're trying to get lean. I switched to Pro Performance AMP Wheybolic Protein Ripped Formula and Ive been using this ever since.
I took the Hammer Nutrition Recoverite to see how well it worked. It claims to restore glycogen to your muscles after a hard workout and allows them to recover faster. Frankly, I didn't feel any different. I'll try it again to see if there is any change. I do know that the Citrus flavored powder didn't appeal to my taste. There was some citrus in there, but it tasted chalky at best. I'll run it through another test and give a final conclusion on it. Maybe, I'll try another flavor next time.
Injinji 5 Toe Socks:
Today, I ran in Injinji 5 Toe Socks for the first time. I thought after putting them on, that this was going to be a headache, I was going to blister up and my scheduled 4 mile run today would be ruined because of all the running. I had to adjust each toe space to fit around the right toe and the pinky toe didn't want to cooperate.
I finally got it together and each of my toes were in their appointed slot. It was a tough run today, but it was due to the heat and humidity. My Injinji socks were actually very comfortable and kept my feet dry all run long. The rest of my body may have been wet, but my feet were dry!! They provided good support with my Brooks Addictions and create an excellent combination. As a matter of fact, I've still got my Injinji's on as I'm writing this review!! I will purchase more of these, not only to run in, but to walk around the house in too!!
No comments:
Post a Comment