I’m a big believer in having the right fuel and supplements to power through a long run or hike (that’s 8+ miles in my book… maybe it’s 20 for you Ultra’s out there). If you can knock those out distances with just water and a few almonds, you have my respect. For us mere mortals, we need a bit more to push us through to the finish line.
For some background, I’ve run half and full marathons, hiked the Grand Canyon, and pushed through extreme elevations (10,000 ft+) and temps (100+ degrees). Along the way I’ve experimented with SO MANY supplements – chews, pills and powders – to help push me beyond where my I felt my body could go. I’m totally aware there’s an element of a placebo effect – but also confident the ingredients in my favs have enough research behind them to have some real benefit.
These are all super natural and clean too – we don’t need suspect ingredients around here! In case you’re wondering – I buy each of these from Amazon because it’s the best price I’ve found out there! You can also find most at your local health food store.
MY FAVORITE SUPPLEMENTS:
- Salt Stick Fast Chews
- Replenish Electrolytes w/Sodium, Potassium and Dextrose
- Best for events longer than 60 minutes
- Chewable. Easy to carry in your bag/pouch and pop mid-run/hike/ride
- How I use: I start popping these 45 min in, then every 30 min thereafter. Always right before a water station on race day so I can wash it down!
- For my dairy-free friends: some of the flavors have dairy – but it’s clearly labeled. Lemon-Lime is good to go (and non-GMO, gluten-free)
- AMAZON: $14 for 60 tabs
2. Garden of Life Energy + Focus
- 85MG of Caffeine to get you ready and focused (from green tea, coffeeberry and coffee fruit)
- Sugar-Free Blackberry Cherry flavor only sweetened with erythritol.
- How I use it: 30 Min before any endurance event.
- I have used this supplement for years – and never feel a crash from too much caffeine or get any weird “flush” or issues mid workout. It’s been my pre-workout for every marathon!
- AMAZON: $28 for 30 Servings
3. Vega Sport Sugar Free Energizer
- 100 MG of Caffeine to get your mind and body amp’d (also from green tea and coffeeberry)
- No added sugar (stevia only) + added Rhodiola for a little fatigue and stress management
- How I use it: Though it has less caffeine than #2 above, I actually use this one for less strenuous events like hikes and easy runs.
- Vega updated the formula in the last few years and while the taste isn’t as good as the original (IMO), the caffeine content and push is definitely better! I’ve legit used this supplement for 7 years (on and off) – big fan
- AMAZON: $29.99 for 35 Servings
4. Superieur Electrolytes
- Natural Electrolytes w/Trace Minerals and Potassium
- Super easy to use – just pop a scoop in your water bottle and you’re good to go
- How I use it: This is clutch during and after really sweaty and hot days. I even use it during the summer when I feel dehydrated.
- I met one of the owners a few years ago, and I love the fact it’s employee owned and built by endurance athletes.
- AMAZON: $28 for 70 servings
5. Banana Bites
- Soft banana chews that are a perfect boost of potassium and fuel to keep you going
- No sugar added, natural, vegan, gluten free
- How I use: I put a few of these in my run belt or pocket and pop when I start to feel hungry or need a little energy.
- I could never stomach gels or chews, but these are so easy on my stomach and great for long distance when you don’t have much storage space on you!
- AMAZON $12 for 3 Pack
Your extremes may be different (3 miles can kick your ass when you’re starting your journey), and your body is certainly different than mine, but we can all benefit from a little boost!
Leave a comment and let me know if you try any of these, or what’s in your bag before hit the pavement.
Inspired Best Self 