Test NDURANZ sodium bicarbonate products: is this the key to becoming Pogačar?

Sodium Bicarbonate Capsules: Discreet Effectiveness for High Intensity Sessions

The product: This first NDURANZ product is a set of enteric-coated sodium bicarbonate capsules, designed to improve endurance in high intensity phases while avoiding the digestive discomforts often associated with this supplementIt is generally taken before sessions, which allows for optimal absorption at the time of exercise.

Our test : We have testThis product is used on VMA (maximum aerobic speed) and threshold sessions. During VMA, where the heart is close to 100% of its capacity at the end of the series, the effect of the capsules is really noticeable: They reduce muscle burn and allow you to chain repetitions without exploding. On threshold sessions, which are longer and less intense, the effect is more subtle but provides support to manage muscle fatigue at the end of the race. In competition (over 5 km and 10 km), the capsules allowed us to maintain the intensity for longer, especially at the end of demanding courses.

Nrgy Unit Drink Buffer: Endurance and Energy for Intense Races

The product: this second product is a drink combining sodium bicarbonate and carbohydrates (maltodextrin and fructose), with a glucose/fructose ratio designed to optimize energy during exercise while limiting digestive discomfort. This drink is therefore suitable for intense endurance phases where energy and acidity management become critical.

Our test : in trail mode, where we often run with flasks of water, this drink format allowed us to easily take the bicarbonate with us. We have testis the Drink Buffer during threshold sessions, but also during trail training with many climbs, where the intensity is constant. The product has proven itself, now a stable energy supply and reducing the risk of cramps at key moments. In addition, its bicarbonate-based composition helped to limit muscle pain at the end of the race, a valuable asset for prolonged efforts and long-term competitions.

Suitable for cyclists

Among the three products testYes, we think that The Nrgy Unit Drink Buffer is particularly suitable for our mainly cyclist audience. This product, in powder form, mixes easily with water in a bottle, making it convenient to carry and consume during exercise. We believe it is ideal for key moments in the race, such as the last half hour of the race or at the time of a long decisive climb, or any other place when lactates start to accumulate and energy begins to drop. Thanks to its carbohydrate and bicarbonate content, it provides valuable support to maintain intensity, reducing the risk of cramps and maintaining a stable energy level.. It is a real ally in the money time, when every pedal stroke counts, to give you the strength you need for one last push towards the finish line (hopefully as the winner).

Bicarbonate tablets: simple and practical for rapid absorption

The product: similar to capsules, These tablets are also composed of sodium bicarbonate but in a form that allows rapid ingestion., well suited to athletes looking for practicality before a session or on the move.

Our test : we also took the opportunity to tester the tablets before a session on Zwift, where we pushed the machine to more than 100% of FTP on 5-minute repetitions. These tablets were also put to the test on two races (5 and 10 km) requiring maximum intensity. Easy to consume, they prove effective in limiting muscle aches during intense exercise and in optimizing the last few minutes when fatigue sets in. They therefore constitute a pleasant and practical option for short sessions, offering convenience and efficiency.

Protocol of the elites

According to our investigation, High-level athletes would sometimes use a protocol of 15 tablets spread over 1 hour and up to 1 hour before intense effort. This regimen therefore consists of taking 5 tablets 2 hours before, then 5 others 1h30 before, and the last 5 1 hour before. At 3bikes, we have not yet testThis is an intensive protocol, but we are keeping this up our sleeve for the spring and the challenges to come!

Bicarbonate for intense sessions and competitions: for whom and for what?

We wanted to check whether sodium bicarbonate, this long-fantasized and inaccessible “magic potion”, really kept its promises. With its use becoming more and more common among elite athletes, We investigated whether this supplement could account for some of the recent peak performances, especially during short, intense efforts such as time trials.

Baking soda is indeed popular for its buffering effect, capable of limiting muscle acidosis, one of the main factors limiting high-intensity performanceThis makes it particularly relevant for athletes who stress their bodies during short, intense efforts (3 to 15 minutes at very high intensity), in VMA, at FTP, at threshold or in competition.

For us, the buffering effect of bicarbonate is very real, and it can offer an advantagetage tangible to extend the maximum effort over short durations. However, The benefits vary from one individual to another, and it is not a miracle cure. : effectiveness depends on personal tolerance and the correct dosage, which must be testand outside of competitions (to avoid side effects such as digestive disorders). In other words, although bicarbonate can contribute to better performances, it is not enough on its own to explain exceptional results.

Practical advice from 3bikes.fr for the use of bicarbonate:

• When to use it? 
Before sessions where intensity will reach or exceed the lactate threshold, to maximize resistance to acidosis.

• How many ? 
Strictly follow the brand's recommended doses for each product and tester upstream during training.

• Who is it for?
Cyclists, runners, triathletes, as well as any endurance athlete who regularly pushes their limits in short formats. This also includes team sports with repeated sprints, such as football or rugby, where the ability to sustain explosive efforts is crucial.

In short, our test confirms that bicarbonate can be an interesting ally for intensive and short efforts, but it does not replace overall preparation or trainingThe recent fantasies surrounding this product are justified to a small extent, provided that it is integrated in a measured manner and that the conditions of use adapted to each person are respected.

To conclude…

So, will this turn you into Pogačar? Not quite… but it helps!

NDURANZ offers here well thought-out products to exploit the potential of bicarbonate and optimize endurance performances. For those who want to gain intensity this winter, while waiting for the return of the cycling season, these products are a real boost. Of course, no instant miracle - but For serious athletes looking for extra gains, they can make a small difference !

So we have testis running this fall, but the real challenge when you are a consultant for 3bikes, awaits us in the spring! The appointment is made to see if these tablets and powder solutions will also prove themselves on mountain pass climbs, and on competitions on route and by mountain bike…

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