What's An Energy Gel?
Introduction: As the demands of modern football continue to evolve, so do the strategies and tools athletes use to maximize their performance on the pitch. One game-changer in the realm of football nutrition is the energy gel – a compact, convenient, and highly effective source of quick energy. In this blog, we delve into the reasons why energy gels have become an indispensable asset for footballers seeking to elevate their game to new heights.
Why Use Energy Gels?
Not all carbohydrates are created equal. It's essential that once you get to the pitch on a training or matchday, that your are consuming High-GI Carbohydrates.
Unlike rice or pasta (Low-GI), energy gels containing simple sugars are one of the most beneficial ways to fuelling performance prior to kick-off and re-fuelling at half-time.
Unlike sports drinks, energy gels are designed to provide a rapid and concentrated source of carbohydrates.
They are portable, easy to carry, and can be quickly consumed without the need for additional water to avoid bloating.
Efficient Carbohydrate Delivery
Carbohydrates are the body's preferred energy source, especially during short bursts of intense exercise. Energy gels are typically rich in easily digestible carbohydrates like maltodextrin, ensuring a swift and efficient delivery of energy to the working muscles. This quick energy release is crucial for footballers during key moments of the game.
Enhanced Endurance and Reduced Fatigue
The strategic consumption of energy gels can help footballers sustain their energy levels throughout the entire duration of a match or training session. By preventing glycogen depletion – the primary energy store in muscles – players can stave off fatigue, maintain optimal performance, and make decisive contributions in critical moments.
Precision Fuelling
The precision in dosage sets energy gels apart. Professional footballers can fine-tune their carbohydrate intake based on individual needs, offering a level of control that complements both training sessions and matchdays.
Footballers are constantly on the move, both during training sessions and matches. Energy gels convenient packaging, allows players to carry and consume them on the go without interrupting their game flow. The compact packaging makes them easy to stash in a kit bag, ensuring that a quick energy boost is always within arm's reach.
Conclusion:
In the fast-paced world of football, where every sprint and every decision matters, energy gels have emerged as a vital tool for players aspiring to perform at their peak. Their rapid energy release, football-specific formulations, and unmatched convenience make them a go-to solution for footballers looking to gain a competitive edge on the pitch.
FOOTBALL FUEL Isotonic Energy Gel has been carefully formulated by nutritionists from Europe's top 5 Leagues, ensuring you're optimally fuelled to optimise your football performance.
References:
1. Baker LB, Rollo I, Stein KW, Jeukendrup AE. Acute Effects of Carbohydrate Supplementation on Intermittent Sports Performance. Nutrients. 2015 Jul 14;7(7):5733-63. doi: 10.3390/nu7075249. PMID: 26184303; PMCID: PMC4517026.
2. Hills SP, Russell M. Carbohydrates for Soccer: A Focus on Skilled Actions and Half-Time Practices. Nutrients. 2017 Dec 25;10(1):22. doi: 10.3390/nu10010022. PMID: 29295583; PMCID: PMC5793250.
3. Harper LD, Briggs MA, McNamee G, West DJ, Kilduff LP, Stevenson E, Russell M. Physiological and performance effects of carbohydrate gels consumed prior to the extra-time period of prolonged simulated soccer match-play. J Sci Med Sport. 2016 Jun;19(6):509-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2015.06.009. Epub 2015 Jun 17. PMID: 26115589.
