GU Energy Liquid Energy Gel With Complex Carbohydrates, 12-Count, Assorted Flavors

Great product

I like these as a fuel for long runs Easy on the stomach and goes give a boost of energy. The coffee flavor did not taste good at all. But the cola, lemon, and orange flavors are great.

Considering that you likely will be drinking them warm, some of the flavors are a little intriguing. The warm cola flavor is OK, but just seems a bit odd, like cola left out on the counter overnight. The espresso flavor also is a bit of a surprise at ambient temperature. They are definitely liquid, and I guess they don't want the contents to squirt out when you tear it open, so even once it is open, you have to squeeze the packet to get it flowing and suck and squeeze the contents. Even doing that, I almost always had some left in the packet. To really empty out a packet, I would have to use both hands to fold the packet up from the bottom to squeeze everything out. Might be ok for running, but not on a bike ride when you don't want to stop. Still, the liquid-gel is easy to swallow and doesn't make you feel like you need to wash it down with water. Knocked off a star on easy-to-swallow because of the difficulty getting it out of the pack. Compared to the energy gels, you get a bigger hit of energy, and quicker, too, but it doesn't last as long. Also, since there is more volume (for the same amount of calories, sodium and amino acids) than the gels, you can't carry as many on long bike rides. So, I've switched back to the gels. May be good for runners and shorter rides, or a quick burst of energy at strategic points, like just before a hill climb.

I really like the liquid GU’s over the gels. I find it a lot easier to take in while running. The variety pack was nice and a good value. They don’t have all the flavors locally (they have more gels- ew!) I tried coffee for the first time, and I’m not sure I would have chosen that flavor at the store even if they had it. It’s lovely- the flavor of a slightly sweet iced coffee! I’m normally caffeine-free in my daily life; I only use while distance running. It was plenty of caffeine to keep me going during the Seattle Half. Also worked for my daughter who has caffeine daily, so the level must be good.

This was the first time I’ve used Gu packs for long cardio workouts. They have been effective at getting me carbs during those long runs. The flavor was somewhat overpowering, but my body doesn’t seem to care as much while I’m working out. I have noticed no jitteriness while using these. They seem to have decent longevity with their expiration dates. I have noticed no leakage, as they are packed really well, which means that they travel well in my cardio vest.