Como afecta el clima en el deporte

How does the weather affect sport and the choice of energy gels?

In a race, it is not only clothes and shoes that are important, but also the energy gels we consume. But did you know that the weather can influence the choice of energy gels during a race? In this article, we’ll talk about how the weather affects your choice of energy gels during a race and give you tips on how to choose the best energy gel for the weather.

How does the climate affect energy gels?

El clima puede afectar la elección de tus geles energéticos durante una carrera. Here’s how:

High temperature

In hot weather, our bodies sweat more to regulate body temperature, which can lead to a loss of electrolytes and a decrease in energy levels. In this case, it is recommended to choose energy gels with a higher amount of electrolytes to replenish what we have lost during the race.

In addition, caffeinated gels can help us stay alert and focused during the race.

Low temperature

In cold weather, our body needs more energy to maintain body temperature. In this case, it is recommended to choose energy gels with a higher carbohydrate content to provide the extra energy needed during the race.

In short, gels with warm flavours such as cinnamon or ginger can help us feel more comfortable during the race.

High humidity

When there is high humidity, our body has more difficulty evaporating sweat and regulating body temperature. In this case, it is recommended to choose energy gels with a higher amount of water to keep hydrated during the race. In addition, caffeinated gels can help us stay alert and focused during the race.

Tips on how to choose the best energy gel for the weather

Now that you know how the weather can influence your choice of energy gels, here are some tips on how to choose the best energy gel for the weather:

Check the label

Before buying an energy gel, check the label to see what nutrients it contains. If it’s hot, choose a gel with a higher electrolyte content. If it’s cold, choose a gel with a higher carbohydrate content. And if there is high humidity, choose a gel with a higher amount of water.

Try different flavours

Energy gels come in a variety of flavours. Try different flavours to find the one you like best. In hot weather, citrus flavours can be refreshing, while in cold weather, warm flavours such as cinnamon can be comforting. In addition, choosing flavours you like can make the consumption of energy gels more enjoyable.

Practice in different weather conditions

Before an important race, it is important to practice in different weather conditions. This will help you determine which energy gels work best for you in different weather conditions. It will also give you the opportunity to adjust your consumption of energy gels according to the weather conditions.

Don’t skip energy gels

Regardless of weather conditions, it is important to consume energy gels during a race to maintain energy and prevent fatigue. Make sure you carry enough energy gels with you during the race and make a plan for their consumption.

Climate, sport and energy gels

The weather can have a significant impact on the choice of your energy gels during a race. It is important to take climatic conditions into account when choosing an energy gel and adjust consumption according to climatic conditions. Try different flavours and practice in different weather conditions to find the best option for you.

FAQs

Can I consume energy gels at any time during a race?

Yes, you can consume energy gels at any time during a race to maintain energy and prevent fatigue.

Should I adjust the consumption of energy gels according to weather conditions?

Yes, it is important to adjust the consumption of energy gels according to the weather conditions to maximise their effectiveness.

What nutrients should I look for in a hot weather energy gel?

Look for energy gels with a higher amount of electrolytes to replenish what is lost during the race.

What nutrients should I look for in a cold weather energy gel?

Look for energy gels with a higher carbohydrate content to provide the extra energy needed to maintain body temperature.

Which flavours of energy gels are recommended for hot weather?

Citrus flavours can be refreshing in hot weather, while warm flavours such as cinnamon can be comforting in cold weather.