What's The Hype Around 226ERS?

If you're deep in the tri scene, you'll probably recognise this name - it's a cheeky nod to the 226km journey of a full-distance triathlon. But don't stress if you're not smashing out Ironmans (yet!) - this Spanish sports nutrition crew has got every endurance athlete covered. Let's dive into why 226ERS is worth all the hype. 

What is 226ERS?

226ERS is a Spanish sports nutrition company specialising in endurance fuel. Their aim is to provide clean nutrition that supports athletes' performance while promoting overall health.

Why is it Called 226ERS?

The name is reflective of the total distance in kilometers of a full distance triathlon. Participants in these events can often be referred to as 226ERS. 

Products and Science Behind the Brand:

Energy Gels → 

All 226ERS gels are vegan and gluten-free, except High Energy Gel – Salty Peanut & Honey which is vegetarian.

• Isotonic Energy Gel → Each gel provides 22 g of carbohydrates from maltodextrin and cluster dextrin for steady energy 1,2, 30 mg of sodium (fast-absorbing isotonic formula), and 100 mg of caffeine in the Cola flavour. Cologne List® certified for anti-doping compliance.

• High Energy Gel → 50g of carbohydrates per gel using maltodextrin, cluster dextrin, corn glucose syrup and sucrose. 10-250 mg of sodium chloride and sodium citrate. Some flavours have 1g of BCAA in a ratio of 8:1:1. Cologne List® certified for anti-doping compliance.

• The High Fructose Gel → 55g of carbohydrates using maltodextrin and fructose in a 10:8 ratio. This ratio is designed to help your body absorb carbs better when you're taking in more than 90g per hour.  250mg of sodium chloride. Cola has 100mg of caffeine per gel. Cologne List® certified for anti-doping compliance.

• Hydrajelly → Jelly texture. 22.6g of carbs per gel using sugar, glucose and fructose. Sodium chloride ranges from 40-250mg per gel. Cologne List® certified for anti-doping compliance.

• 226ers- Energy Gel-Strawberry (40g) → 29g of carbohydrates using unrefined wheat syrups and juice concentrates. 247-251mg sodium chloride. Smaller 40g gel size making it easier to carry. 

In Summary →

• Scientifically backed, natural, high-quality ingredients

• Carbohydrate choices for sustained energy

• Suits a variety of dietary requirements

• Rapid gastric emptying and reduced GI discomfort

Ash Miller
Dietitian and Nutritionist (Masters)
Bachelor of Physical and Health Education
Instagram: @ashthomo_nutrition

References

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2. König, D., Zdzieblik, D., Holz, A., Theis, S. and Gollhofer, A., 2016. Substrate utilization and cycling performance following Palatinose™ ingestion: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Nutrition Journal, 15(1), p.9. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-016-0131-4 [Accessed 9 Apr. 2025].

3. Drwal, A., Pałka, T., Tota, L. et al. Acute effects of multi-ingredient pre-workout dietary supplement on anaerobic performance in untrained men: a randomized, crossover, single blind study. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 16, 128 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-024-00918-1

4. Jiaming Y, Rahimi MH. Creatine supplementation effect on recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Food Biochem. 2021 Oct;45(10):e13916. doi: 10.1111/jfbc.13916. Epub 2021 Sep 2. PMID: 34472118.