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Running Nutrition & Performance Blogs — Ascend

Learn about energy gels, electrolytes and almost everything in the space of nutritional supplements to get your PBs in your next race.

Flat lay of fat sources and carbohydrate sources side by side — nuts, avocado and dark chocolate on one side, banana, oats, dates and an energy gel on the other — illustrating the two primary fuel systems the body uses during endurance activity
Energy gels
Fat vs. Carbs: Which Fuel System Does Your Body Use During an Endurance Activity?

Your body runs on two fuels — fat and carbs — but not in equal measure. Here's how each one works, when your body switches between them and why that matters on race day.

Runner consuming a hypotonic gel during a short training run, illustrating how diluted, easy-to-absorb gels suit lower-intensity or shorter duration exercise
Energy gels
Hypertonic vs Isotonic vs Hypotonic Gels: What's the Difference?

Hypotonic, isotonic, hypertonic — three types of gels, three very different jobs. Here's what sets them apart and which one your gut will thank you for on race day.

Energy gel packet and sports drink mix bottle side by side, representing the two primary fuelling tools for marathon runners and when to use each
Energy gels
Energy Gels vs. Sports Drink Mixes: What to Use and When

Gels or drink mixes — which one wins? Neither. They do completely different jobs. Here's how to use both to build a fuelling plan that actually holds up across 42 kilometres.

Indian marathon runner tearing open an energy gel mid-race, illustrating the importance of on-the-go carbohydrate fuelling during a marathon
Energy gels
Do You Need to Consume Energy Gels While Running a Marathon and Why?

Your body can only store enough carbs for 2–3 hours of running. The marathon takes longer than that. Here's why energy gels aren't optional — and how many you actually need.

Indian marathon runner pulling out an energy gel early in a race, looking strong and composed — illustrating the importance of fuelling on schedule before fatigue sets in
Energy gels
Should You Consume a Gel Even When You Think You Don't Need It?

Feeling good at kilometre 10? That's exactly why you should take your gel now — not later. Here's the science behind fuelling before you need it.

Close-up of a runner's arm with sweat droplets mid-run — illustrating electrolyte loss through sweat
Electrolytes
What Are Electrolytes & How Do They Power Every Move Your Body Makes?

Think of your body as an electrical grid. Electrolytes are what keep the current flowing — here's how.

Does Caffeine Improve Performance In An Endurance Sport?
Energy gels
Does Caffeine Improve Performance In An Endurance Sport?

Caffeine doesn't give you energy like food does. It changes how your brain perceives effort — and that changes everything on race day.