FUEL: Behind the Bars – Energy Bar Review

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.

::GEARBOX
Hammer Bar – $3.40
Hammer Nutrition
25007

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.

::GEARBOX
Macrobars – $3.50
GO Macro
25050

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.

::GEARBOX
Muscle Milk Bars – $4.00
Muscle Milk
25009

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.

::GEARBOX
Promax Energy Bars – $3.00
Promax
25014

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.

::GEARBOX
Protein Bar – $3.50
Honey Stinger
25013

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.

::GEARBOX
Protein Plus Bar – $3.50 – $4.00
Powerbar
25012

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.

::GEARBOX
Soldier Fuel Bars – $2.00
Soldier Fuel
25065

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.

::GEARBOX
Sport Bar – $2.40 – $2.60
Powerbar
25011

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.