Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy vs Cramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel
- 2 products side by side
- From each brand's label
These products serve different roles and aren’t direct competitors. The Sports Gel provides quick energy, while Cramp Assalt focuses on hydration and cramp prevention. Both are tailored to enhance endurance performance with specific functions.
| Figure |  Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy32Gi |  Cramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel32Gi |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Gel | Liquid |
| Serving | 27g | 10g |
| Price per serving | R31.97 (best) | R33.99 |
| Carbs per R10 | 6.6 g (best) | 2.3 g |
| Value score | 4.3/10 (best) | 2/10 |
| Energy | 84 kcal | 31 kcal |
| Carbs | 21 g (best) | 7.7 g |
| Sugar | 13 g | 4.8 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g | 0.1 g |
| Fat | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sodium | 140 mg | 184 mg |
| Caffeine | None | None |
| Carb type | Maltose | Rice Syrup |
| Glucose to fructose | 1:0 | — |
| Glycaemic index | — | — |
| Score | Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy | Cramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Energy delivery | 65 | 60 |
| Digestibility | 80 | 70 |
| Taste | 70 | 70 |
| Value | 70 | 30 |
| Convenience | 85 | 80 |
- Sports Gel is primarily a quick energy source, whereas Cramp Assalt serves as an electrolyte replenisher with added cramp prevention.
- Sports Gel contains more carbohydrates per serving than Cramp Assalt.
- Cramp Assalt includes potassium, aiding in muscle function, which is not present in Sports Gel.
- Sodium content is higher in Cramp Assalt, making it more effective for hydration needs.
How each one works, by distance
Not ideal for a 5k due to its quick energy release, which might not be necessary for such a short distance. Focus on hydration instead.
Not ideal for a 5k due to its focus on cramp prevention rather than quick energy delivery.
Consider using one gel 15 minutes before the start to ensure glycogen stores are topped off, especially if the race is expected to last close to an hour.
Similar to a 5k, a 10k doesn't typically require cramp prevention strategies, making it less suitable.
Consume one gel 10 minutes before the race and another at the halfway mark to maintain energy levels. This strategy helps prevent mid-race fatigue.
Consider using one pack pre-race to ensure electrolyte balance, especially in hot conditions.
Start with a gel 10 minutes before the race, then consume one every 45 minutes. This ensures a steady glucose supply, crucial for maintaining pace and preventing the dreaded wall.
Use one pack at the start and every 10 km to maintain electrolyte levels and prevent cramping, complementing other energy sources.
The verdict by situation
Use 32Gi Sports Gel during intense, shorter activities where quick energy is required. Reach for Cramp Assalt during long, hot training sessions where the risk of cramps is higher due to sweat loss.
For a comprehensive fueling strategy, combine the quick energy boost of the Sports Gel with the cramp prevention and hydration support of Cramp Assalt. While the gel boosts your carbohydrate intake, the Cramp Assalt will help maintain electrolyte balance in long activities.
Using both weekly in training sessions will cost around R65, making it a sustainable option for consistent athletic output.
- Tip 1: Alternate between Sports Gel and Cramp Assalt during high-intensity workouts.
- Tip 2: Use Sports Gel at the onset of exercise for an energy surge, while incorporating Cramp Assalt mid-session for hydration.
- Tip 3: Monitor GI comfort and adjust intake based on personal tolerability to each product.
Both products have unique roles in a training regimen. The Sports Gel provides immediate energy, crucial for bursts of activity, while Cramp Assalt focuses on sustaining performance through hydration and cramp mitigation. Together, they provide a balanced strategy for maintaining peak performance during various endurance challenges.
Questions about these products
Can I use the Sports Gel for hydration?
No, the Sports Gel is mainly for quick energy, lacking potassium and sufficient sodium for hydration.
Is Cramp Assalt enough for energy?
Cramp Assalt's low carbohydrate content makes it insufficient as a primary energy source.
How often should I consume these during training?
Sports Gel can be taken every 45 minutes during activity, while Cramp Assalt is suited for hourly consumption in hot conditions.
Will I experience GI distress from these products?
While individual tolerance varies, single-source carbs may lead to GI distress if consumed excessively.
Picked your fuel? Put it in your plan.
Glyco places it on your race course by time, at the rate your gut can take, and tracks what you actually used.
