Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)

Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)

  • Gel
  • 22 g carbs per serving
  • From Science In Sport's label
The short answer

Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple) has 22 g carbs, 10 mg sodium per serving, from R44 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 2.9/10 (poor value).

Carbs22g
Sodium10mg
CaffeineNone
Per servingR44
About it

Easily digestible by the stomach providing energy fast. No need for additional water. Convenient form-factor for versatile fuelling. A liquid carbohydrate energy gel created using maltodextrin. Officially the World's first Isotonic Energy Gel and Winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2015. It continues to be a go-to energy source for elite athletes worldwide.

  • Used as part of your fuelling strategy
  • the GO Isotonic Energy Gel can help you maintain your pace for longer
  • Isotonic formula means no need for additional water or fluids
  • Easily & quickly absorbed by the stomach
  • providing energy fast
  • No artificial flavours

Decision helper the numbers athletes compare

Value score2.9/10Poor value
Cost score against the Endure average3.4/10
35 products in the category+1.07σ
Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g-0.5
Value score2.9/10
About $0.108 a gram of carbs, at R18.50 to the dollar.How we score ›
Price per g carbR2Poor value · 3.4/10Cost vs live Endure average (z-score)41% pricier than the category average
Price per 100 g carbR200Premium / PoorCost to buy 100 g of carbohydrate fuel — easier to compare than per-gram
Carb density36,7%Drink-likeCarbs as % of serving weight — affects gut load
Sodium per 100 kcal11 mgPremium / PoorElectrolyte adequacy vs 300–600 mg Na/hr target
Caffeine per servingNoneStimulant dose per serving
Servings for 60 g an hour2,7AverageServings/hour to hit the 60 g/hr fuelling target

On the label per serving, 60ml

Energy87 kcal
Carbs22 g
Sugar0.6 g
Protein0 g
Fat0 g
Sodium10 mg
Potassium0 mg
Caffeine0 mg
Carb typeMaltodextrin
Glucose to fructose1:0
Carb sourcesMaltodextrin (from Maize)

Who it suits and where it falls short

Who it is for

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is ideal for endurance athletes such as marathon runners, triathletes, and cyclists who need quick energy during long training sessions or races. It's particularly suited for those who prefer not to carry additional water, as its isotonic formulation means it can be consumed without extra fluids. Athletes participating in events lasting over 90 minutes will benefit most from its rapid carbohydrate delivery.

Best sessions

long runs 90min+, tempo rides 60-90min, brick workouts 2hr+, marathon pace runs, long interval sessions

Pros
  • Isotonic formula requires no additional water.
  • Rapid energy delivery due to maltodextrin.
  • Convenient gel format for easy mid-race use.
  • Low sugar content reduces risk of GI distress.
  • Award-winning formulation trusted by elite athletes.
Cons
  • Single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rate.
  • Low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation.
  • High cost per carbohydrate gram compared to competitors.
  • Limited flavor options may not suit all palates.
Race day

How to use it, by distance

For a 5k, this gel isn't necessary due to the short duration. Focus on pre-race nutrition instead.

The science in short

D
Primary use

Best for endurance athletes needing quick energy without carrying extra water.

Isotonic — The gel's osmolality is designed to match body fluids, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal distress and promoting efficient absorption.

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a reliable choice for athletes who need quick, convenient energy without the hassle of additional water. However, its reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits its absorption potential, making it less suitable for those seeking to maximize carbohydrate intake during intense or prolonged efforts. The low sodium content also necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation for longer events.

Why it works

The gel uses maltodextrin, a glucose polymer, which is quickly absorbed through the SGLT1 transport pathway. Its isotonic nature means it matches the body's natural osmolality, promoting rapid gastric emptying and absorption without the need for additional water, making it ideal for mid-race fueling.

The trade-off

The single-source carbohydrate limits the gel's ability to maximize absorption rates to 60g/hour, which may not be sufficient for all athletes.

Serving

Each 60ml serving provides 22g of carbohydrates, which is below the typical 30-60g per hour target for endurance athletes.

Carb density

0.366 g/ml, lower than some competitors which offer up to 0.5 g/ml.

Carb matrix

Single-source carbohydrate from maltodextrin limits absorption to SGLT1 pathway only.

Carb types

Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1)

Electrolytes

Low sodium content (10mg) is insufficient for replacing typical sweat losses of 300-600mg/hr.

Glucose to fructose

1:0 — Limited to glucose absorption pathways, capping intake at 60g/hour.

Hourly capacity

3 gels = 66g carbs, within 60-90g/hr ceiling

  • ⚡ High spike risk — best mid-effort. Risk of rebound hypoglycemia.
  • 🔒 Single-source carb — limited to ~60g/hour via SGLT1 only.

Using it in training and racing

Flavour and feel
acidity
moderate — Slightly tangy, which can be refreshing during intense efforts.
summary
After 90 minutes in the heat, the apple flavor remains refreshing and the gel easy to consume without water.
texture
The gel is smooth and easy to squeeze from the packet, requiring minimal pressure. It dissolves quickly in the mouth without needing additional water.
mouthfeel
gel-like — Smooth and easy to swallow, with a slight viscosity that helps it stay in the mouth briefly.
sweetness
moderate — Balanced sweetness similar to diluted apple juice, not overpowering.
aftertaste
clean — Leaves a mild apple flavor without lingering sweetness.
available flavors
Apple
How to train your gut
tips
Practice with gels during training, not just on race day., Pair with electrolyte drinks to compensate for low sodium., Test different timing strategies to find optimal energy boost., Monitor for any GI distress and adjust intake accordingly.
week 1
Start with one gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance.
week 2
Increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer workouts.
week 3
Simulate race conditions by consuming gels at race pace during long runs.
week 4
Full race rehearsal with target gel intake and pacing strategy.
Heat and cold

In heat above 25°C, the gel maintains its consistency without becoming too runny. In cold conditions below 5°C, it thickens slightly but remains easy to consume. The gel does not freeze solid, making it reliable in various temperatures.

Packaging

The gel packet features a tear notch for easy opening, even with one hand. It fits well in running belts and cycling jersey pockets, though care should be taken to avoid sticky residue after use.

Sustainability

The packaging does not provide specific recyclability information. The brand does not make claims about sustainable sourcing or transparency in its production processes.

Pairs well with
  • Electrolyte tablets — To supplement sodium levels during long events.
  • Protein bars — For post-race recovery and muscle repair.
  • Hydration packs — To ensure adequate fluid intake alongside gels.
What other athletes say
  • The isotonic formula allows for rapid gastric emptying without additional water (Brand claim).
  • Maltodextrin is a glucose polymer that facilitates quick absorption (Ingredient pharmacology).
  • The gel's low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation (Review sentiment).
  • Single-source carbohydrate limits absorption to SGLT1 pathway (Carb matrix).
In depth

## Who It's For The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is tailored for endurance athletes, such as marathon runners, triathletes, and cyclists, who require rapid energy delivery during prolonged efforts. Its isotonic formulation is particularly beneficial for those who prefer not to carry additional water, making it a convenient choice for mid-race fueling. Athletes participating in events lasting over 90 minutes will find this gel especially useful for maintaining energy levels without the need for extra hydration.

## Inside the Formulation This gel is formulated with maltodextrin, a glucose polymer known for its rapid absorption through the SGLT1 transport pathway. The isotonic nature of the gel ensures that it matches the body's natural osmolality, promoting quick gastric emptying and efficient absorption without additional water. This makes it ideal for athletes who need fast energy delivery without gastrointestinal distress. However, the reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits the gel's ability to maximize absorption rates, capping it at 60g/hour.

## On Course: How to Use It For a marathon, start with a gel 10 minutes before the race and continue every 45 minutes (at 7 km, 14 km, 21 km, 28 km, 35 km) to meet carbohydrate needs. While the gel is not necessary for a 5k, it can be useful for a 10k if taken 10 minutes before the start. In a half marathon, consume one gel 10 minutes before and another at the 10 km mark.

## How It Compares Compared to other energy gels, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers the convenience of not needing additional water due to its isotonic formulation. However, its single-source carbohydrate limits its absorption potential, making it less suitable for athletes seeking to maximize carbohydrate intake during intense efforts. The low sodium content also necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation for longer events.

## Training Your Gut Begin gut training with one gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance. Increase to two gels per session in the second week, focusing on longer workouts. In the third week, simulate race conditions by consuming gels at race pace during long runs. In the final week, conduct a full race rehearsal with target gel intake and pacing strategy.

## The Verdict The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a reliable choice for athletes who need quick, convenient energy without the hassle of additional water. However, its reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits its absorption potential, making it less suitable for those seeking to maximize carbohydrate intake during intense or prolonged efforts. The low sodium content also necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation for longer events. Despite these limitations, its award-winning formulation and ease of use make it a popular choice among endurance athletes.

Sizes and where to buy

SizePricePer servingBuy
Single1 × 1 servingR44R44Buy ›

Questions about GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)

How many carbs are in Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)?

22 g of carbs per serving (60ml), with 10 mg sodium, from Science In Sport's label.

What does Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple) cost per serving?

From R44 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 5 g of carbs per R10.

How many gels should I take during a marathon?

For a marathon, it's recommended to start with a gel 10 minutes before the race and continue taking one every 45 minutes. This helps maintain energy levels throughout the race, aligning with the typical carbohydrate intake target of 30-60g per hour.

How does this gel compare to its main competitor?

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers the advantage of not requiring additional water due to its isotonic formulation. However, it uses a single-source carbohydrate, which may limit absorption compared to competitors using multi-source carbs that can maximize intake through different pathways.

Is there caffeine in this gel?

No, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel does not contain caffeine. This makes it suitable for athletes who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer to manage their caffeine intake separately.

How should I store the gel in hot conditions?

In temperatures above 25°C, the gel maintains its consistency and does not become overly runny. It's advisable to keep it in a shaded area or insulated pouch to maintain optimal texture and taste.

Can the gel freeze in cold conditions?

The gel thickens slightly in temperatures below 5°C but does not freeze solid. This ensures it remains easy to consume even in cold weather conditions.

How should I train my gut to tolerate this gel?

Start with one gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer workouts, and simulate race conditions by consuming gels at race pace during long runs.

Is the gel vegan and free from common allergens?

The gel is free from animal products, making it suitable for vegans. However, it's always best to check the full ingredient list for any specific allergens you may be concerned about.

What is the refund policy and availability?

Availability and refund policies vary by retailer. It's recommended to check with the seller or the official website for specific details regarding returns and availability in your area.

In our journal featuring GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)

Compare with gels close in carbs

In the app

Racing with GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Apple)? 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.

A race plan with fuel placed on the course, in the Glyco app