How Bloks Energy Chews Fuel Your Performance
The Science Behind the Chews
At their core, Bloks energy chews function by providing a rapid and easily digestible source of carbohydrates. During intense physical activity, your body's primary fuel source is carbohydrates, which it stores in your muscles as glycogen. However, these stores are limited and can be quickly depleted, leading to a phenomenon known as "hitting the wall" or "bonking". By consuming Bloks, athletes can continuously replenish their blood glucose levels, ensuring a steady supply of energy to working muscles and delaying fatigue.
The chews are formulated with a blend of carbohydrate sources, including organic tapioca syrup and organic cane sugar, which are absorbed quickly for immediate energy. This is balanced with maltodextrin, a complex carbohydrate that helps provide more sustained energy release. This combination of simple and complex sugars is a cornerstone of effective sports nutrition, offering both immediate and lasting fuel.
Electrolyte Replenishment
Beyond carbohydrates, Bloks also play a vital role in maintaining electrolyte balance. When you sweat, your body loses key electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which are essential for hydration and muscle function. Many Blok flavors contain added sodium to help replenish what is lost, supporting fluid balance and helping to prevent cramping. This is particularly important for athletes engaging in long, hot, or sweaty sessions. Specific flavors, like Margarita, are designed with an extra boost of sodium for heavy sweaters.
Caffeine for an Added Boost
Certain flavors of Bloks, including Black Cherry and Tropical Punch, also contain caffeine derived from green tea extract. Caffeine is a well-known performance-enhancing ingredient that can improve alertness and reduce the perception of effort during exercise. The precise dosing per chew (ranging from 25mg to 50mg) allows athletes to customize their caffeine intake, providing a mental and physical lift when they need it most during a race or long training session.
Using Bloks Effectively During Your Workout
To get the most out of Bloks, proper timing is crucial. Most recommendations suggest consuming half a packet (three chews) about 15 minutes before an activity to top off your energy stores. During your workout, you should continue with one to two packets (three to six chews) per hour, depending on the intensity and your personal needs. It is vital to consume Bloks with water to aid in digestion and absorption.
For customization, Bloks offer a unique advantage. The individual cubes allow you to easily control your calorie and carbohydrate intake. If you have a sensitive stomach, you can space out your consumption or take fewer chews at once. This contrasts with a gel, which must be consumed all at once, potentially overwhelming the digestive system during high-intensity efforts.
Bloks vs. Other Fueling Options: A Comparison
| Feature | Bloks Energy Chews | Energy Gels | Energy Bars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texture & Form | Semi-solid, chewy cubes; similar to gummy candy. | Liquid or syrupy; requires swallowing, not chewing. | Solid food; requires more chewing and digestion. |
| Carb Absorption | Fast-absorbing with a mix of simple and complex carbs. | Very fast-absorbing, immediate energy kick. | Slower absorption due to more complex carbs and fiber. |
| Electrolytes | Contains added sodium and potassium for replenishment. | Varies by brand; often included. | Generally lower electrolyte content than chews or gels. |
| Convenience | Easy to carry in a sleek, easy-open package ('Fastpak'). | Very portable, but can be messy if packaging tears. | Can be bulky to carry and require more effort to eat. |
| Customization | Excellent; individual chews allow for precise dosing. | Poor; must consume the entire packet at once. | Varies; some can be broken, others must be eaten whole. |
| Digestibility | Gentle on the stomach; easier to digest than solid food during intensity. | Highly concentrated; can cause stomach upset in some athletes. | Can be hard to digest during high-intensity exercise. |
Potential Downsides and Best Practices
While effective, Bloks are not without their considerations. Some users have reported issues with the packaging, noting that it can be tricky to open mid-workout, especially with cold hands. Additionally, the texture, while generally well-received, might not be for everyone. It’s important to test Bloks during training sessions to ensure they work for your stomach and preferences before relying on them during a race.
For optimal use, always pair Bloks with sufficient water intake. This facilitates digestion and ensures your body remains properly hydrated to utilize the carbohydrates and electrolytes effectively. Combining Bloks with other fuel sources, such as energy drinks, can also prevent flavor fatigue and help you meet your total hourly carbohydrate goals.
Conclusion
So, do Bloks energy chews work? For most endurance athletes, the answer is a resounding yes. They provide a reliable, easily digestible, and portable source of carbohydrates and electrolytes to sustain performance during long workouts and races. The individual chew format allows for precise and customizable fueling, catering to the specific needs of each athlete. While they have a few minor drawbacks, such as packaging and texture preferences, their effectiveness as a sports nutrition tool is well-established. By understanding how they function and incorporating them into a well-planned fueling strategy, athletes can confidently use Bloks to power their performance and push their limits.
