Best Energy Chews for a Marathon

When you are 18 miles into a marathon and your legs are starting to feel it, the last thing you want is fuelling that feels like a chore.

Energy chews offer a practical middle ground between gels and bars. They are easy to portion, simple to carry and often gentler on the stomach.

For many marathon runners, chews are ideal for maintaining steady carbohydrate intake without the texture fatigue that can come from repeated gels.

Why Energy Chews Work for Marathon Runners

During a marathon, most runners aim for 60 to 90g of carbohydrate per hour, depending on bodyweight, pace and gut tolerance. Energy chews make it easy to break that into smaller, manageable doses.

They are particularly useful when:

• You prefer to chew rather than swallow gels
• You want to space your carbohydrate intake every 10 to 15 minutes
• You are running at a slightly steadier pace and can tolerate a bit more texture
• You want flexibility with caffeine or sodium options

As always, practise with them in training. What feels easy at mile 5 can feel very different at mile 22.

How to Use Energy Chews in a Marathon

A simple strategy could look like:

• Start fuelling around 30 minutes into the race
• Take small amounts every 10 to 15 minutes
• Combine chews with water to aid digestion
• Match your total hourly intake to your carbohydrate target

The exact structure depends on your pace, tolerance and overall fuelling plan.

With that in mind, here are some great chew options for your next marathon:

Precision Fuel PF 60 Chew Bars

The PF 60 Chew Bar from Precision Fuel is purpose-built for athletes who need big energy in a compact format. Each 68g bar delivers a substantial 60g of fast-absorbing carbohydrate, making it one of the most efficient carb-to-weight options available.

This makes it particularly effective for longer durations and steadier marathon pacing where you want meaningful fuel without constantly reaching for another gel. There is no caffeine or electrolytes included, so it pairs easily with your existing hydration strategy.

226ERS Vegan Gummy Bar

226ERS Vegan Gummy Bars offer a tasty and practical energy solution for marathon runners who prefer a softer, jelly-like texture. Each 30g bar is packed with high-quality, organic carbs designed to support energy levels during exercise.

The texture makes them easy to chew on the move, even when breathing rate is high. They are also available in versions with added BCAAs, caffeine or electrolytes, giving you flexibility to tailor your intake depending on race conditions and personal preference.

Clif Bloks

Clif Bloks are a well-established option for athletes who want a quick and reliable energy source without the fuss of traditional gels. Each Blok contains 33 calories and includes added electrolytes to support hydration and muscle function.

They come in a Fastpak with six chews per pack, making them easy to carry and open while running. With options that include added caffeine or higher sodium, they allow marathon runners to fine-tune their fuelling approach, particularly in the final third of the race where mental sharpness and electrolyte balance become even more important.

FAQs

Are energy chews better than gels for a marathon?

It depends on personal preference. Some runners find chewing easier on the stomach, while others prefer the quick swallow of a gel.

How many energy chews should I take per hour?

This depends on the carbohydrate content of the product and your target intake, typically between 60 and 90g of carbohydrate per hour.

Should I take water with energy chews?

Yes, taking water alongside chews can help with digestion and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort during the race.

Summary

Energy chews are a flexible and practical option for marathon runners who want steady, manageable carbohydrate intake without relying solely on gels. Whether you prefer a high-carb chew bar, a soft organic gummy texture or individually portioned chews with added electrolytes, there is an option to suit your strategy.

Test your approach in training, build confidence in your intake and head to the start line knowing your fuelling is dialled in.

You can also use our Nutrition Calculator to work out how many carbs you need for your next race.