Så här använder du CLIF Energy Chews före ett maraton
By CLIF Bar | Published: 2026-08-31
Category: Gör-det-själv-guider
Lär dig hur du tajmar och använder CLIF Energy Chews inför ett maraton för jämn energi. Få praktiska tips för laddning inför loppet.
Marathon day is all about preparation, and what you eat before the start line plays a huge role in how you feel at mile 20. CLIF Energy Chews are a popular choice among runners because they deliver quick carbs in a portable, easy-to-digest form. But timing and quantity matter. This guide walks you through how to use CLIF Energy Chews before a marathon, so you can start strong and finish steady.
Whether you're a first-time marathoner or aiming for a personal best, understanding how to fuel with energy chews can make a real difference. We'll cover when to take them, how many to eat, and how to pair them with water and other snacks. Plus, we'll share tips on practicing your race-day nutrition during training.
Why Choose CLIF Energy Chews for Marathon Fueling
CLIF Energy Chews are designed to provide a quick source of carbohydrates, which your body uses for energy during endurance exercise. They're soft, chewy, and easy to eat on the run, making them a convenient alternative to gels or bars. Each chew contains around 33 calories and 8 grams of carbs, so you can easily adjust your intake based on your needs.
Unlike some other energy products, CLIF Energy Chews have a pleasant texture and come in flavors like Chocolate Chip and Blueberry Almond Crisp. They also contain electrolytes, which help maintain fluid balance during long runs. For a marathon, you need a steady supply of carbs, and these chews can be a reliable part of your fueling plan.

- Each chew provides quick-digesting carbs for immediate energy.
- Contains electrolytes to support hydration.
- Portable and easy to carry in a running belt or pocket.
When to Take CLIF Energy Chews Before the Race
The goal of pre-race fueling is to top off your glycogen stores without causing stomach discomfort. Aim to eat a balanced meal 2-3 hours before the start, including carbs and a little protein. About 30-45 minutes before the gun goes off, you can take a few CLIF Energy Chews to give your body a quick boost.
If you're planning to use chews during the race, start taking them early, around the 30-minute mark, and continue every 30-45 minutes. But for the pre-race window, 2-3 chews (about 16-24 grams of carbs) is a good starting point. Test this during your training runs to see how your stomach responds.
- Eat a carb-rich meal 2-3 hours before the race.
- Take 2-3 CLIF Energy Chews 30-45 minutes before the start.
- Practice your pre-race fueling during long training runs.
How Many CLIF Energy Chews Do You Need?
The number of chews you need depends on your body weight, pace, and how long you've been running. As a general guideline, endurance athletes aim for 30-60 grams of carbs per hour during exercise. Since each CLIF Energy Chew provides 8 grams of carbs, you'd need roughly 4-8 chews per hour if you rely solely on them.
For the pre-race portion, you don't need as many. A single serving of 2-3 chews is usually enough to top off your energy without feeling heavy. If you're also using gels or sports drinks, adjust accordingly. Remember, the key is to avoid overdoing it – too many chews can cause gastrointestinal distress.
- Start with 2-3 chews before the race; adjust based on training.
- During the race, aim for 30-60 grams of carbs per hour.
- Combine with water to aid digestion and absorption.
Pairing CLIF Energy Chews with Hydration
Hydration is just as important as carb intake. When you eat energy chews, drink water to help them break down and move through your stomach. A good rule is to take a few sips of water after each chew. Avoid sports drinks with high sugar content if you're already getting carbs from chews, as this can overload your system.
Before the race, make sure you're well-hydrated. In the hours leading up to the start, sip water regularly, but don't overdo it – you don't want to be stopping at every porta-potty. During the race, alternate between water and electrolyte drinks if needed, but keep your chew intake consistent.
- Drink 4-6 ounces of water with each serving of chews.
- Avoid high-sugar sports drinks if you're already taking chews.
- Practice hydration with chews during long runs.
Tips for Testing CLIF Energy Chews During Training
Never try something new on race day. Use your long training runs to experiment with CLIF Energy Chews. Start with the same amount you plan to take before the marathon and see how your stomach handles it. Also, practice taking them at the same time you would on race day to get your body used to the routine.
Keep a log of how many chews you take, when you take them, and how you feel. This will help you fine-tune your fueling strategy. Remember, everyone is different, so what works for your running buddy might not work for you. Trust your training and adjust as needed.
- Try CLIF Energy Chews on at least two long runs before race day.
- Simulate race-day timing and hydration.
- Record your fueling plan and any stomach issues.
Using CLIF Energy Chews before a marathon can give you the quick energy you need to start strong and maintain your pace. The key is to practice your fueling strategy during training, find the right amount for your body, and pair it with proper hydration. With the right plan, you'll cross that finish line feeling strong.



