One significant difference between marathon training and ultra marathon training is the nutrition needed for training runs. Most marathoners will complete two runs of about 20 miles prior to race day. Training for the Fall 50 in October calls for back to back weekend runs, and those runs have been in the range of 4-5 hours for weeks. That translates to 23-30 miles.
At that distance, I go through a lot of nutrition while training. This weekend I used nine gels and a packet of Clif Shot Bloks (more on that, later). I'm grateful for various Online sources that help save on the cost, because a case of Gu is lasting barely two weeks.
For this weekend's runs, I tested out some freebies. Both the health expo and actual race for the Fox Cities Marathon allowed me to stock up on CarBoom gels, and I also picked up a sample of Clif Shot Bloks. And the rule is to not RACE with new things. Though they were both the distance of a marathon, neither training run was a race.
On Saturday, I went with four Strawberry Kiwi CarBoom gels. My very first impression was "Holy insulin reaction, Batman!" I'll have to test others, but I feel safe in saying the Strawberry Kiwi flavor is sickly sweet. It says a lot that the Gatorade chaser tasted bland.
That said, I finished all four gels and suffered no GI distress. Of course, I've never had any distress from any gel, so I might be a bad example. Gu, Power Gel, Hammer, whatever. And at 110 calories instead of the 90 Gu provides, CarBoom might have a place in my arsenal.
Sunday, I went with two Triberry Gu, two more Strawberry Kiwi CarBoom, and a package of cola Shot Bloks. I used the Gu first, followed by the CarBoom, and finished with the Bloks. Interestingly, the CarBoom seemed less sweet after the Gu. For future races, I might consider alternating Gu with CarBoom. It's a few extra calories and provides a greater variety of flavors.
For the most part, I liked the Shot Bloks very much. They provided a bit of solid food without being overwhelming. Since they are in caramel size pieces, portion control is easy, and each piece is about 10 calories. As a note, in addition to being the same size as a caramel, they are equally sticky and chewy.
Update: Co-worker and commentor John pointed out that I may have misread the nutrition information on the package of Shot Bloks. We looked it up On-line and determined a package of six pieces has 200 calories, making three pieces comparable to a single packet of gel. Thanks to John for pointing this out. It makes me more comfortable with the idea of using them.
The biggest concern with the Shot Bloks is that a package of six pieces is only 60 calories. Those six pieces take up far more room than a couple of gels, for a fraction of the energy. Anyone looking for "bang for the buck" would be better off going with gels. But for someone looking for variety and "solid food," Shot Bloks might be the answer.
Finally, a bit more feedback on Hammer Endurolytes powder. I've been using this in my primary drinking bottles for several long runs, now. The results have been completely positive. I'm now completing 30 mile runs in warm weather without serious dehydration. In the past, runs of 10-15 miles often resulted in dehydration. Depending on the individual's tolerance for the "salty" taste of increased electrolytes, there is a great deal of flexibility in dosage.
My final test will be to use Endurolytes powder with Gatorade Endurance. That is what will be used on the course of the Fall 50, and I have a couple sample packs for tests during training. I believe it will be fine, and continue to recommend this product as an option for those struggling with hydration issues.
As you consider alternative nutrition ideas, please remember to test them in training. As you become more comfortable with what your body can and cannot take, you'll have a better idea what might work during a race. I've found I can grab just about any gel being offered on the course and use it without worry. Others I know have to always carry their very specific nutrition as just about anything else will take them out of the race.
A safe bet, though, is that if you DON'T test it, it will cause problems.
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