🔬 Research-Backed Fueling
We didn't guess at our formula. We followed the research. Here's what the science says about dual-carb fueling — and why it matters for every mile you run, ride, or race.
Your gut has two completely separate transport systems for carbohydrates. Using both at once is the difference between surviving your long run and nailing it.
Glucose is absorbed via sodium-glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1). This pathway maxes out around 60g/hr when used alone — it becomes fully saturated.
Fructose uses an entirely separate transporter (GLUT5). Adding fructose opens a second lane of absorption that glucose simply can't use.
With both transporters engaged and gut training, research shows elite and well-trained athletes can absorb and oxidize up to 120g of carbohydrate per hour — far beyond the old 60g/hr ceiling.
Caffeine and electrolyte needs vary dramatically between athletes, conditions, and events. By keeping our carb products pure, you can dial in those additives separately — exactly how you need them.
Mixing caffeine into carb products can create dependency, timing issues, and flavor problems. Your pre-race coffee, caffeine gels, or electrolyte drink should stand alone — and they should be your choice.
To absorb 120g/hr, you need to train your gut progressively — starting at 60g and building up over weeks. Our products let you do that cleanly, without added variables clouding the picture.
Maltodextrin and fructose are commodity ingredients. We're not doing anything magical with the supply chain. So why is everyone else charging so much?
Big brands fund pro athlete sponsorships, billboard campaigns, and Super Bowl ads — then pass the cost to you. We grow by doing good work and letting athletes tell the story.
We're not beholden to investors who need a 10x return. Penny Performance is built by endurance athletes, for endurance athletes. Profits go back to the community — not to a boardroom.
We started Penny because we were tired of spending $50+ just to fuel a long run. We believe everyone in the endurance community deserves access to great fuel — not just those who can afford premium pricing.
Leading endurance brands charge $3–$5 per gel and $2–$4 per drink mix serving. The ingredients? Nearly identical. The difference is what they spend to put it in front of you.
We don't want people spending $50 just to go on a long run.
Same science. Fraction of the price. Judge for yourself.
| Feature | Penny Performance | Brand A | Brand B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price per gel serving | ~$1.50 | $3.50–$5.00 | $2.50–$4.00 |
| Carbs per serving | 50g | 22–25g | 25g |
| Dual-carb formula (G+F) | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ |
| 1:0.8 Glucose:Fructose ratio | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Handmade in USA | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Athlete-owned & operated | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Ambassadors share in profits | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ |
Average annual savings for a serious runner or cyclist who fuels consistently — switching from premium brands to Penny Performance.