Zack’s Guide to Hammer Nutrition

Frequently I hear a lot about proper hydration on race day, soreness after the race, or even feeling fatigued on race day.  I thought it would be easier to explain what I’ve found works well for me.  We all hear and are bombarded with the new products out there that are supposed to make you stronger, better, and faster, but I can say I’ve had the best experience with Hammer Nutrition products.  I used to struggle with fatigue, headaches, sluggishness, arm pump, and various things that slowed me down on race day and during the week.  Hammer Nutrition has alleviated a lot of this.  Below I’ve listed some of their products I use along with how they’ve helped me.

Hammer Gel:

I’ve tried Clif Shots, Gatorade gels, and a few other energy bars, but Hammer Gel is by far my favorite Hammer Product.  It comes in a small packet for a fanny pouch or a five serving flask that can be filled with their large 26 serving container.  It provides the right amount of energy after a section or mid-race.  If you watch closely in the GNCC videos, you will often see riders take a hammer gel during their pit stop.  I use the flask with the vanilla flavor which is easy on my stomach.  I take one serving after each section in order to stay energized.

HEED:

HEED was the third Hammer product I’ve tried and I’ve used it ever since.  Prior to Heed, I used water, Gatorade, or Powerade but often lacked energy with it.   Now that I know Powerade and Gatorade are mostly sugar and water, I tried HEED.  At each race, I will mix two scoops of HEED with two water bottles and half to a full container of powerade.  The main reason I still use Powerade is for flavor as my stomach is so used to the blue flavor.  HEED has eliminated my arm pump and more efficiently kept me hydrated.

Recoverite:

I often refer to Recoverite as the “magic” solution.  It is pretty much whey mixed with complex carbs and put into a simple packet.  I often mix it with one water bottle to dilute the flavor.  Recoverite should be taken immediately after exercise or within 30 minutes for best use.  It has cured any soreness after race day and brought my energy back a lot faster.  I usually take the vanilla flavor as it is easiest on my stomach.

Fizz:

Fizz was something that I just threw into a water bottle one day to try.  It is purely electrolytes with about ten calories in each tablet.  I throw one tablet into my camelback or one into a water bottle.  It has a light flavor (I prefer grape) and gives a carbonated taste.  I can’t say I’ve noticed a huge difference with Fizz but I haven’t had any problems with it either.  The grape or grapefruit flavors are my favorite.

To get 15% off an order of Hammer Nutrition, use the code: 214793, my name and my email: ktmracing323@yahoo.com.  Feel free to contact me with any questions.