BICARB reimagined.
Buffering acidity, maintaining performance.

The effect of sodium bicarbonate (bicarb for short) during short, high-intensity efforts has been well documented for years, for example in time trials or sprints. However, most races are decided late on, after hours of accumulating fatigue.

A new, independent study set out to address exactly this. It investigated how performance changes when bicarbonate is taken during a long, sustained effort such as an endurance race, rather than beforehand, as is usual.

The right approach depends on your goal in competition or training. Our three protocols show you how to use bicarbonate most effectively.

 
 

New study, new use: BICARB GEL 40 in detail

An independent study by Liverpool John Moores University, led by Dr Julien Louis and carried out in collaboration with World Athletics and Siemens Healthineers, reached a clear conclusion:

In the study, cyclists who took bicarbonate alongside carbohydrates during a three-hour ride produced around 6 per cent more power when fatigued and sustained a 7 per cent higher power output (critical power) than when they took carbohydrates alone. Gastrointestinal tolerance was unaffected.
Download study →
 
 

  • Pre-Load Protocol

    For high-intensity efforts after a pre-loading routine

    The Pre-Load Protocol is the foundation of the Bicarb+ Protocols. Bicarb loading is completed entirely through a pre-loading routine with BICARB capsules, ideal for competition and training with a fixed intensity window of up to 2 hours.

  • Top-Up Protocol

    Pre-Load plus targeted gels to extend availability

    The Top-Up Protocol builds on the Pre-Load Protocol. BICARB GEL 40 complements the pre-loading routine with an additional bicarb dose. This extends the active phase of bicarb, making it ideal for longer races.

  • Gel-Only Protocol

    Gel-Only option for full-gas efforts late in the race

    The Gel-only Protocol works entirely without a pre-loading routine. BICARB GEL 40 is taken several times during the race to achieve a consistent bicarb level. For the decisive final phase, BICARB CAFFEINE GEL 40 Grapefruit 1:0.8 is ideal as a caffeinated gel.
 
 

BICARB products

 
 

Interesting facts about bicarbonate

In our blog posts and podcast episodes, we explore all aspects of bicarbonate: the science behind it and its various uses.
 
 

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