Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Pineapple)
- Gel
- 22 g carbs per serving
- From Science In Sport's label
Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Pineapple) 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 such as marathon runners, long-distance cyclists, and triathletes who require a quick source of carbohydrates during prolonged activities. It's particularly suited for those who prefer a gel that doesn't require additional water for digestion, making it convenient for races or training sessions where carrying extra fluids is impractical. Athletes who are sensitive to fructose or prefer single-source carbohydrate products may also find this gel beneficial.
long runs over 90 minutes, 3-hour bike rides, tempo runs, brick sessions, race simulations, long interval workouts
- Isotonic formula eliminates need for additional water.
- Rapid carbohydrate delivery from maltodextrin.
- Convenient single-serving packaging.
- Low sugar content reduces risk of GI distress.
- No artificial flavors enhance natural taste.
- Single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rate.
- Low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation.
- Limited to 60g/hour carbohydrate absorption via SGLT1.
- Higher cost per carbohydrate gram compared to competitors.
How to use it, by distance
For a 5k race, the gel may not be necessary due to the short duration. Focus on pre-race nutrition instead.
Consider consuming one gel 10-15 minutes before the start to top up glycogen stores without needing additional water.
Consume one gel 10 minutes before the race and another at the 10 km mark to maintain energy levels.
Start with a gel 10 minutes before the race, then take one every 45 minutes, aiming for 3-4 gels total to maintain carbohydrate intake and energy levels.
The science in short
Best for mid-race energy boosts during long endurance events where carrying water is impractical.
Isotonic — The gel is designed to match the osmolality of body fluids, facilitating quick absorption and minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal distress.The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a practical option for athletes needing quick energy without extra water. While its isotonic nature aids digestion, its single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, making it less suitable for maximizing carbohydrate intake in long events. The low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation. Its cost per gram of carbohydrate is higher than some competitors, which may be a consideration for those on a budget.
The gel uses maltodextrin, a glucose polymer that is rapidly absorbed via the SGLT1 transporter. Its isotonic nature means it matches the osmolality of body fluids, promoting quick gastric emptying and absorption without the need for additional water. This can be advantageous in races where hydration stations are sparse.
The reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits the gel's capacity to maximize carbohydrate absorption rates, potentially capping energy intake during extended efforts.
Each 60ml gel provides 22g of carbohydrates, which is on the lower end compared to other gels, necessitating multiple servings for longer events.
0.37g/ml, which is typical for isotonic gels but lower than more concentrated options.
The gel is single-source, relying solely on maltodextrin, which limits its carbohydrate absorption to the SGLT1 pathway.
Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1)
Contains only 10mg of sodium, which is insufficient for replacing sweat losses of 300-600mg/hr, requiring additional electrolyte sources.
1:0 — This limits absorption to 60g/hour, as only the SGLT1 transporter is utilized.
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 a long run, the gel's smooth texture and moderate sweetness make it refreshing, though the single-source carb may limit its energy boost.
- texture
- The gel squeezes out easily from the packet, with a smooth consistency that dissolves quickly in the mouth.
- mouthfeel
- gel-like — The texture is smooth and easy to swallow, with a consistency that is neither too thick nor too runny.
- sweetness
- moderate — The sweetness is akin to diluted fruit juice, making it palatable without being overpowering.
- aftertaste
- clean — Leaves a subtle, pleasant aftertaste without any lingering artificial notes.
- available flavors
- Pineapple
- tips
- Start with small doses to assess tolerance., Pair with water for better absorption if needed., Practice at race intensity to mimic conditions., Monitor for any GI distress and adjust intake.
- week 1
- Start with 1 gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance.
- week 2
- Increase to 2 gels per session, focusing on longer runs or rides.
- week 3
- Simulate race conditions with 3 gels per session at race pace.
- week 4
- Perform a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake and additional hydration.
In high temperatures (>25°C), the gel may become slightly more fluid, making it easier to consume. In cold conditions (<5°C), it may thicken slightly but remains squeezable. It does not freeze easily, making it reliable in various climates.
The gel's packaging features a tear notch for easy opening, and its compact size fits well in pockets or race belts. It leaves minimal sticky residue, making it convenient for on-the-go consumption.
The packaging does not mention recyclability or sustainability claims, which is a missed opportunity for environmentally conscious consumers. The brand could improve transparency in sourcing and packaging practices.
- Electrolyte tablets for sodium supplementation.
- Caffeine gels for a mental boost during long races.
- Hydration packs for additional fluid intake.
- The gel's isotonic nature is highlighted as a key benefit, reducing the need for extra water (source: product description).
- Maltodextrin is noted for its rapid absorption via SGLT1, supporting quick energy delivery (source: ingredient pharmacology).
- The low sodium content is a limitation, requiring additional electrolyte sources (source: nutrition facts).
- The gel's single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates to 60g/hour (source: carb_matrix).
## Who It's For The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is tailored for endurance athletes who require a quick and convenient source of carbohydrates without the need for additional water. It is particularly beneficial for marathon runners, long-distance cyclists, and triathletes who face logistical challenges in carrying extra fluids during long events. This gel is also suitable for athletes who prefer single-source carbohydrate products, as it relies solely on maltodextrin.
## Inside the Formulation This energy gel features a simple formulation centered around maltodextrin, a glucose polymer known for its rapid absorption via the SGLT1 transporter. The isotonic nature of the gel ensures it matches the osmolality of body fluids, promoting quick gastric emptying and absorption. This is advantageous during races where hydration stations are sparse, and carrying additional water is impractical. However, the reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits the gel's capacity to maximize carbohydrate absorption rates, potentially capping energy intake during extended efforts.
## On Course: How to Use It For shorter events like a 5k, the gel may not be necessary due to the brief duration. Instead, focus on pre-race nutrition. For a 10k, consider consuming one gel 10-15 minutes before the start to top up glycogen stores. During a half marathon, take one gel 10 minutes before the race and another at the 10 km mark to maintain energy levels. In a marathon, start with a gel 10 minutes before the race, then take one every 45 minutes, aiming for 3-4 gels total to maintain carbohydrate intake and energy levels.
## How It Compares The GO Isotonic Energy Gel stands out for its isotonic formulation, which eliminates the need for additional water. However, its single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, making it less suitable for maximizing carbohydrate intake in long events. The low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation. Its cost per gram of carbohydrate is higher than some competitors, which may be a consideration for those on a budget.
## Training Your Gut To optimize the use of this gel, start with 1 gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance. In week 2, increase to 2 gels per session, focusing on longer runs or rides. By week 3, simulate race conditions with 3 gels per session at race pace. In week 4, perform a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake and additional hydration. Start with small doses to assess tolerance, pair with water for better absorption if needed, practice at race intensity to mimic conditions, and monitor for any GI distress.
## The Verdict The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a practical option for athletes needing quick energy without extra water. While its isotonic nature aids digestion, its single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, making it less suitable for maximizing carbohydrate intake in long events. The low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation. Its cost per gram of carbohydrate is higher than some competitors, which may be a consideration for those on a budget. Overall, it's a reliable choice for mid-race energy boosts during long endurance events where carrying water is impractical.
Sizes and where to buy
Questions about GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Pineapple)
How many carbs are in Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Pineapple)?
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 (Pineapple) 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?
During a marathon, it's recommended to start with one gel 10 minutes before the race and then consume one gel every 45 minutes. This strategy helps maintain energy levels throughout the race, aiming for a total of 3-4 gels depending on your pace and energy needs.
How does this gel compare to its main competitor?
Compared to its main competitors, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers the advantage of not requiring additional water due to its isotonic formulation. However, it is limited by its single-source carbohydrate, which may not maximize absorption rates as effectively as multi-source gels.
Is there caffeine in this gel?
No, this specific gel does not contain caffeine. It's suitable for athletes who prefer to avoid caffeine or are sensitive to its effects. If caffeine is desired, consider pairing with a caffeine-containing gel or supplement.
Does the gel require mixing or dissolution?
No mixing is required for this gel. It is ready to consume directly from the packet, making it convenient for on-the-go use without the need for additional water or preparation.
How does the gel behave in heat or cold conditions?
In high temperatures, the gel may become slightly more fluid, making it easier to consume. In cold conditions, it may thicken slightly but remains squeezable. It does not freeze easily, making it reliable in various climates.
What is the best way to train my gut for this gel?
Begin with one gel per session, twice a week, to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer runs or rides. Simulate race conditions with three gels per session at race pace, and perform a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake and additional hydration.
Is this gel vegan and free from common allergens?
The gel does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for vegans. However, always check the packaging for specific allergen information to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
What if I am not satisfied with the product?
If you are not satisfied with the product, check the retailer's return policy for details on refunds or exchanges. Many retailers offer satisfaction guarantees or return options for unopened products.
In our journal featuring GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Pineapple)
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