Swimming, cycling, and running in the mountains in the middle of summer: the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon is not a race like any other. Between altitude, elevation gain, and long-distance effort, the body is subjected to intense physiological stress. To support you, the range of Overstim.s sports nutrition products will be available at all aid stations. Here is the 2026 selection, along with a quick reminder of the key principles of nutrition for triathletes!
THE OVERSTIM.S PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT THE AHT 2026
- Hydrixir Ultra Red Fruits: one of Overstim.s’ most popular solutions, addressing both energy and electrolyte needs.
We love its red fruity flavor, which stands out from the usual mint or lemon options, and above all, its proven effectiveness.
- Energix Lemon: an energy gel that has become one of Overstim.s’ flagship products. It combines several types of carbohydrates (fructose, maltose, glucose) for a gradual energy release.
We appreciate its practical packaging, which provides 20% more energy while using less plastic than a standard tube.
- New gummy candies (available in June): a fun way to break the monotony of traditional sports nutrition. Offered in cola flavor with caffeine and lemon flavor without caffeine.
We love the gummy format – a little nostalgic with its sweet taste – and the option to choose with or without caffeine.
- Mango Passion Bars: for those who enjoy texture and flavor. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them easier to consume during exercise.
We enjoy their fruity taste and pleasant sweetness.
- Coup de fouet Gel: the ideal solution for a quick carbohydrate intake, perfect for preventing potential hypoglycemia during running after a demanding cycling climb.
We love the instant energy surge at the end of the race.
Nutrition isn’t just about performance—it’s also key to enjoying the race and avoiding common endurance pitfalls like digestive issues, low blood sugar, or dehydration. And it’s not only about what you eat during the event: what you do before and after counts just as much.
A smart nutrition strategy takes the whole picture into account. Knowing the specific challenges of the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon—altitude, long climbs, and hot summer conditions—can make a real difference in how comfortably and successfully you finish the race.
And one golden rule: never try anything new on race day. Test your nutrition in training first. Make sure to experiment with Overstim.s products ahead of time so you can fine-tune a fueling plan that’s reliable, effective, and tailored to you.
SPORTS NUTRITION FOR A MOUNTAIN TRIATHLON
SWIMMING: THERMAL SHOCK AND HIGH ENERGY EXPENDITURE
When you dive into Lac du Verney, your body is exposed to a double stress:
- the thermal shock caused by entering (relatively) cold water,
- the sudden activation of the cardio-respiratory system linked to the fast start.
As a result, glycogen consumption is high.
It is therefore essential to build up adequate glycogen stores before the start through appropriate nutrition and hydration in the days leading up to the event, as well as during the pre-race meal. Consuming a pre-race drink or a breakfast specifically optimised for endurance performance is an effective way to approach the swim with confidence.
CYCLING: MANAGING ENDURANCE
After the swim, the road cycling leg is a long-duration effort involving constant variations in intensity, as the mountainous course alternates between climbs, descents and flat sections. The body therefore consumes large amounts of glycogen. In addition, summer conditions lead to significant sweating. You are consequently exposed to risks of hypoglycaemia, dehydration and digestive issues.
To meet the body’s needs and prevent these risks, it is important to provide regular, small and varied intakes of carbohydrates, electrolytes and fluids. This includes:
- an energy drink suited to endurance efforts in hot conditions;
- a mix of sports nutrition products (gels, bars, purées, etc.) to vary textures and maintain appetite, which is often reduced during long events.
To tackle the ascent of the 21 bends of Alpe d’Huez—where intensity rises sharply on already fatigued muscles—easily digestible energy sources (liquid or semi-liquid) and an electrolyte-rich drink are recommended.
RUNNING: THE FINAL BATTLE AT ALTITUDE
Once the bike is racked, one final challenge remains: the run at altitude, in the heart of the Alpe d’Huez resort. At this stage, central fatigue has set in, mental clarity may decrease, and reduced oxygen availability makes the effort even more demanding. It is therefore crucial to maintain energy and fluid intake while prioritising ease of consumption.
- Continue hydrating with an energy drink suited to endurance efforts.
- A fast-acting energy gel can be used to provide a rapid carbohydrate boost.
