Gear

FUEL: Behind the Bars - Energy Bar Review

June 15, 2009
By Gus Alexandropolous

Under ideal circumstances, most runners prefer to fuel up for training or racing with natural unprocessed food. But when demands of work and family don’t allow for traditional meals, energy bars are an excellent substitute. Not only do they deliver a quick hit of energy, but many bars are also fortified with critical nutrients that help pre- and article-race performance. As with any food, taste and texture play a huge role in the enjoyment of the bar. These qualities are highly subjective and one runner’s gourmet treat is another’s equivalent of childhood Brussels sprouts. The simple solution is to try a few different bars, find an appetizing flavour and stick with it.



  • Hammer Bar - $3.40

    Hammer Bar - $3.40

    Hammer Nutrition


    Flavour - Chocolate Chip

    Total Calories - 220

    Carbohydrates -26 g

    Protein - 9 g

    Fat - 9 g

    This tasty bar consists of organic ingredients and is appropriate for runners on a gluten-free diet. The moist texture makes it easy to eat,  while the blend of carbs, protein and fat ensures a balanced article- or pre-run meal.

  • Macrobars - $3.50

    Macrobars - $3.50

    GO Macro


    Flavour - Granola Delight

    Total Calories - 210

    Carbohydrates - 36 g

    Protein - 5 g

    Fat - 8g

    Consisting of organic and macrobiotic ingredients, the Macrobars resemble real food in taste and texture. The Granola Delight bar is especially appetizing and will appeal to runners who want a great-tasting alternative to processed bars.

  • Muscle Milk Bars - $4.00

    Muscle Milk Bars - $4.00

    Muscle Milk


    Flavour - Vanilla Toffee Crunch

    Total Calories - 290

    Carbohydrates -30g

    Protein - 25 g

    Fat - 10 g

    The gooey chocolatey texture of this bar closely resembles typical chocolate bars, making it a top choice for runners wanting a decadent article-run treat without the sugar spike. The relatively high fat and protein content also satisfy hunger, making Muscle Milk Bars a good late-afternoon snack.

  • Promax Energy Bars - $3.00

    Promax Energy Bars - $3.00

    Promax


    Flavour - Cookies 'n Cream

    Total Calories - 280

    Carbohydrates - 39 g

    Protein - 20 g

    Fat - 6 g

    This high-protein bar delivers energy with a wonderful chocolate-bar flavour. The smooth, creamy texture further heightens the taste, making this a great choice for runners who usually don't enjoy energy bars.

  • Protein Bar - $3.50

    Protein Bar - $3.50

    Honey Stinger


    Flavour - Dark Chocolate Coconut Almond Pro

    Total Calories - 390

    Carbohydrates - 36 g

    Protein - 20 g

    Fat - 20 g

    The Honey Stinger Protein Bars are dense, satisfying and tasty. These chocolatey treats are delicious, but their relatively high caloric value might be a problem for runners looking to lose weight.

  • Protein Plus Bar - $3.50 - $4.00

    Protein Plus Bar - $3.50 - $4.00

    Powerbar


    Flavour - Fudge Brownie

    Total Calories - 300

    Carbohydrates - 37 g

    Protein - 24 g

    Fat - 6 g

    Packed with more than twice the protein of conventional PowerBar Sport Bars, the Protein Plus Bar offers a tasty alternative to protein-heavy recovery drinks. The slightly higher fat content also helps create a full feeling for a great meal alternative.

  • Soldier Fuel Bars - $2.00

    Soldier Fuel Bars - $2.00

    Soldier Fuel


    Flavour - Real Peanut Butter

    Total Calories - 270

    Carbohydrates - 41 g

    Protein - 10 g

    Fat - 8 g

    Developed with research from the Natick Soldier Centre, Soldier Fuel bars deliver a satisfying combination of carbs, protein and fat for pre-race fuelling and article-race recovery. The light, crispy bar is particularly tasty and won't harden in sub-zero temperatures.

  • Sport Bar - $2.40 - $2.60

    Sport Bar - $2.40 - $2.60

    Powerbar


    Flavour - Chocolate

    Total Calories - 200

    Carbohydrates - 43 g

    Protein - 9 g

    Fat - 1.6 g

    This classic energy bar continues to deliver an easily digested blend of carbs and protein in a familiar homogeneous texture. The relatively neutral flavour options should appeal to almost any runner.