Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange)
- Gel
- 22 g carbs per serving
- From Science In Sport's label
Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange) has 22 g carbs, 10 mg sodium per serving, from R44 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 2.9/10 (poor value).
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
| Cost score against the Endure average | 3.4/10 |
|---|---|
| 35 products in the category | +1.07σ |
| Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g | -0.5 |
| Value score | 2.9/10 |
On the label per serving, 60ml
| Energy | 87 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Sugar | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Potassium | 0 mg |
| Caffeine | 0 mg |
| Carb type | Maltodextrin |
| Glucose to fructose | 1:0 |
| Carb sources | Maltodextrin |
Who it suits and where it falls short
The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is ideal for endurance athletes who require quick energy boosts without the need for additional water. This product is particularly suitable for marathon runners, triathletes, and long-distance cyclists who need efficient energy delivery during prolonged efforts. It's also beneficial for athletes who experience gastrointestinal distress with hypertonic gels, as its isotonic nature aids in easier digestion.
long runs over 90 minutes, marathon pace runs, long-distance cycling events, triathlon brick sessions, tempo runs over 60 minutes
- Isotonic formula requires no additional water for digestion
- Rapid energy delivery due to simple carbohydrate structure
- Convenient single-serving packaging for ease of use
- Low sugar content reduces risk of GI distress
- No artificial flavors, appealing to those seeking natural ingredients
- Single-source carb limits absorption to 60g/hour
- Low sodium content may require additional electrolyte supplementation
- High cost per gram of carbohydrate compared to competitors
- Limited flavor options available
How to use it, by distance
For a 5k, the energy demands are typically met by pre-race nutrition. This gel may not be necessary unless glycogen stores are compromised.
Consume one gel 15-20 minutes before the race to ensure glycogen stores are topped off, providing an energy boost for the entire race.
Take one gel 10 minutes before the start and another around the 10km mark to maintain energy levels and prevent glycogen depletion.
Consume one gel 15 minutes before the race, then one every 45 minutes during the race. This cadence helps maintain energy levels, aiming for around 50g of carbs per hour.
The science in short
Best for mid-race energy boosts during long endurance events where hydration is limited.
Isotonic — The gel's osmolality is designed to match body fluids, promoting efficient gastric emptying and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.The GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers a convenient and quick energy source for endurance athletes, particularly useful in situations where hydration is limited. However, its reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits its absorption capacity, and the low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation. While it excels in digestibility due to its isotonic nature, the high cost per gram of carbohydrate and limited flavor options may deter some athletes. Ideal for mid-race energy boosts but not as effective for maximizing carbohydrate intake over extended periods.
The gel's isotonic nature facilitates rapid gastric emptying and absorption, minimizing gastrointestinal distress. Maltodextrin, a glucose polymer, is quickly metabolized, providing fast energy. However, as a single-source glucose-based carb, it limits carbohydrate absorption to 60g/hour, relying solely on SGLT1 transporters.
While the isotonic formula aids in digestion, the lack of fructose means it doesn't fully exploit the dual carbohydrate transport pathways, potentially limiting maximum carbohydrate absorption rates.
At 22g of carbs per serving, it requires multiple servings to meet higher carb needs, increasing cost.
0.37g/ml, which is typical for isotonic gels but lower than concentrated gels.
The gel uses a single-source carb, maltodextrin, which limits absorption efficiency compared to multi-source options.
Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1)
Contains only 10mg of sodium per serving, which is insufficient for replacing sweat losses in endurance events, necessitating additional electrolyte supplementation.
1:0 — This limits the absorption to the glucose pathway, potentially capping carbohydrate intake at 60g/hour.
3 gels = 66g carbs, within 60-90g/hr ceiling
- ⚡ High spike risk — best mid-effort. Risk of rebound hypoglycemia.
- 🧂 Low sodium — supplement with salt tabs for >90 min runs.
- 🔒 Single-source carb — limited to ~60g/hour absorption rate via SGLT1 only.
Using it in training and racing
- acidity
- moderate — The citric acid provides a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- summary
- After 90 minutes in the heat, the gel is easy to consume and doesn't leave a sticky residue, making it a practical choice for long-distance events.
- texture
- The gel is easy to squeeze out of the packet, requiring minimal pressure, and dissolves quickly in the mouth.
- mouthfeel
- gel-like — Smooth and easy to swallow, with a consistency that doesn't require chewing.
- sweetness
- moderate — The sweetness is akin to a diluted sports drink, providing a palatable taste without being overwhelming.
- aftertaste
- clean — Leaves a refreshing aftertaste with no lingering artificial flavors.
- available flavors
- Orange
- tips
- Test different intake timings to find what works best for you., Pair with water to aid in digestion if not using isotonic gels., Monitor for any GI discomfort and adjust intake accordingly., Practice your gel opening technique to minimize time loss during races.
- week 1
- Start with one gel during a mid-week long run to assess tolerance.
- week 2
- Increase to two gels in a single session, spacing them 30 minutes apart.
- week 3
- Simulate race conditions by consuming three gels during a long run at race pace.
- week 4
- Conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake to finalize strategy.
In heat, the gel maintains its consistency without becoming overly runny, while in cold conditions, it remains pliable and easy to consume. It does not freeze solid, making it suitable for use in various climates.
The packaging features a tear notch for easy opening, even with sweaty hands. Its compact size fits well in running belts and cycling jerseys, though care should be taken to avoid sticky residue.
- Electrolyte tablets for sodium supplementation during long events.
- Protein bars post-event for recovery and muscle repair.
- Hydration packs to maintain fluid balance alongside energy intake.
- The isotonic formula is designed to match body fluids, promoting efficient absorption (Brand claim).
- Maltodextrin is a glucose polymer that provides rapid energy (Ingredient pharmacology).
- Single-source carb limits absorption to 60g/hour via SGLT1 (Carb matrix).
- Low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation (Nutrition analysis).
## Who It's For
The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is tailored for endurance athletes who need rapid energy without the hassle of additional hydration. Its isotonic formulation is particularly beneficial for marathon runners, cyclists, and triathletes who often face the challenge of balancing energy intake with fluid management. The gel is also suitable for athletes who have experienced gastrointestinal issues with hypertonic gels, as its isotonic nature promotes easier digestion.
## Inside the Formulation
This gel stands out due to its isotonic nature, meaning it matches the osmolality of bodily fluids, allowing for quick absorption without the need for extra water. The primary carbohydrate source is maltodextrin, a glucose polymer that is rapidly metabolized to provide fast energy. However, as a single-source glucose-based carbohydrate, it limits the absorption to the SGLT1 transport pathway, capping the carbohydrate intake at approximately 60 grams per hour. The gel also contains minimal sodium, which may require athletes to supplement with additional electrolytes during extended endurance activities.
## On Course: How to Use It
For shorter races like a 5k, the gel may not be necessary unless glycogen stores are depleted. In a 10k, consuming a gel 15-20 minutes before the race can help top off energy reserves. For half marathons, a gel before the start and another around the halfway point can help sustain energy levels. In marathons, a strategic intake of one gel every 45 minutes is recommended to maintain energy and prevent glycogen depletion, aiming for a target of approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates per hour.
## How It Compares
Compared to other energy gels, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers the unique advantage of not requiring additional water for digestion, thanks to its isotonic formulation. However, its reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits its absorption efficiency compared to multi-source options. Additionally, the low sodium content may necessitate additional electrolyte supplementation, which is a consideration for athletes competing in long-duration events.
## Training Your Gut
To optimize the use of this gel, athletes should engage in a gut training protocol. In the first week, start with one gel during a mid-week long run to assess tolerance. In the second week, increase to two gels in a single session, spacing them 30 minutes apart. By the third week, simulate race conditions by consuming three gels during a long run at race pace. In the final week, conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake to finalize your strategy.
## The Verdict
The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a convenient and efficient energy source for endurance athletes, particularly in situations where hydration options are limited. Its isotonic formulation aids in digestion and absorption, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal distress. However, the single-source carbohydrate limits its maximum absorption rate, and the low sodium content requires additional supplementation. While it excels in ease of use and digestibility, the high cost per gram of carbohydrate and limited flavor options may be drawbacks for some athletes. Ultimately, it is best suited for mid-race energy boosts during long endurance events.
Sizes and where to buy
Questions about GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange)
How many carbs are in Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange)?
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 (Orange) cost per serving?
From R44 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 5 g of carbs per R10.
How should I dose the GO Isotonic Energy Gel during a marathon?
For a marathon, it's recommended to consume one gel 15 minutes before the race and then one every 45 minutes during the race. This strategy helps maintain energy levels and prevents glycogen depletion, aiming for a carbohydrate intake of around 50 grams per hour.
How does this gel compare to its main competitors?
The GO Isotonic Energy Gel's main advantage is its isotonic formulation, which allows for quick absorption without additional water. However, its single-source carbohydrate limits absorption efficiency compared to multi-source options, and it has a higher cost per gram of carbohydrate.
Is there caffeine in the GO Isotonic Energy Gel?
No, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel does not contain caffeine, making it suitable for athletes who prefer to avoid stimulants during their training and races.
How should I mix or dissolve the gel?
The gel is designed to be consumed directly from the packet without the need for mixing or additional water, thanks to its isotonic formulation.
How does the gel behave in hot and cold temperatures?
In hot conditions, the gel maintains its consistency without becoming overly runny, and in cold conditions, it remains pliable and easy to consume. It does not freeze solid, making it suitable for use in various climates.
What is the best way to train my gut for this gel?
Begin with one gel during a mid-week long run to assess tolerance. Gradually increase the number of gels and simulate race conditions by consuming them during long runs at race pace. Conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake to finalize your strategy.
Is the GO Isotonic Energy Gel vegan and free from common allergens?
Yes, the gel is vegan-friendly and does not contain common allergens like gluten or dairy, making it suitable for athletes with specific dietary restrictions.
What are the potential side effects of using this gel?
While the isotonic formulation reduces the risk of gastrointestinal distress, some athletes may still experience mild bloating or discomfort. It is important to test the gel during training to ensure personal tolerance.
In our journal featuring GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange)
Compare with gels close in carbs
- Energy Bar vs GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange) vs Citrus Gel vs Beta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)Compare ›
- Sports Chews - Energy Sustaining Jelly Bar vs Hydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports Drink vs GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange) vs Beta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)Compare ›
Racing with GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Orange)? 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.
