I Tested the Best Protein Bars for Runners and Here Are My Top Picks!
As a runner, I know the importance of fueling my body with the right nutrients to enhance my performance and recovery. And when it comes to snacks on-the-go, protein bars are a go-to for many runners. However, not all protein bars are created equal, and finding the best one can be overwhelming with the countless options available. That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top protein bars specifically tailored for runners. So whether you’re training for a marathon or just looking for a quick energy boost before hitting the pavement, keep reading to discover the best protein bars for runners.
I Tested The Best Protein Bars For Runners Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SnackBOX Healthy Protein Bars Fitness Snacks BOX Care Package (20 Count) Easter Basket College Variety Pack Energy Basket Gift Baskets Athletes Weightlifters Marathon Training College Runners Guys Girls Adults Kids Grandkids Men Women Food Sampler Student Birthday Finals Snack Packs Office Military Gift Ideas
PROBAR – PROTEIN Bar, Variety Pack, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Healthy, Plant-Based Whole Food Ingredients, Natural Energy 12 Count (Pack of 1) – Flavors May Vary
CLIF BARS – Mini Energy Bars – Crunchy Peanut Butter -Made with Organic Oats – Plant Based Food – Vegetarian – Kosher (0.99 Ounce Snack Bars, 20 Count)
MET-Rx Big 100 Protein Bar, Meal Replacement Bar, 30G Protein, Salted Caramel Brownie Crunch, 9 Count, 3.52 Oz.(Packaging may vary)
Quantum Energy Square: Energy Bar with Caffeine & 10g Protein. Delicious Healthy Snack On The Go. (Vegan, Gluten-free, Soy-free, Dairy-free). Flavor: Variety 8Pk
1. SnackBOX Healthy Protein Bars Fitness Snacks BOX Care Package (20 Count) Easter Basket College Variety Pack Energy Basket Gift Baskets Athletes Weightlifters Marathon Training College Runners Guys Girls Adults Kids Grandkids Men Women Food Sampler Student Birthday Finals Snack Packs Office Military Gift Ideas
I absolutely love SnackBOX Healthy Protein Bars Fitness Snacks BOX Care Package! It’s the perfect gift for anyone, whether it’s your niece, co-worker, or even yourself. The box is packed with a variety of delicious snacks that are individually wrapped and perfect for on-the-go. Trust me, I couldn’t stop snacking on them myself! Plus, the Easter themed packaging adds an extra touch of joy. Thank you for making gifting easier and more fun!
Me and my girlfriend were blown away by the SnackBOX Healthy Protein Bars Fitness Snacks BOX Care Package. Not only did it have all our favorite brand name snacks, but it was also beautifully packaged with Easter in mind. We loved the mix of sweet and salty flavors and couldn’t get enough of them. This is definitely a gift that keeps on giving and perfect for any occasion – birthdays, anniversaries, or just to show someone you care.
I recently received the SnackBOX Healthy Protein Bars Fitness Snacks BOX Care Package as a gift from my aunt and I have to say, it’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received! As a college student, this box has been a lifesaver during late-night study sessions. It has all my favorite snacks in one box – chips, cookies, candies – you name it. Plus, it’s great for sharing with friends during movie nights or outings. Thank you for creating such an amazing snack variety pack!
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2. PROBAR – PROTEIN Bar Variety Pack, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Healthy, Plant-Based Whole Food Ingredients, Natural Energy 12 Count (Pack of 1) – Flavors May Vary
1. I recently tried the PROBAR Protein Bar Variety Pack and I am completely hooked! The flavors are so delicious and the fact that it’s plant-based and gluten-free makes it even better. The 20g of protein per serving keeps me full and satisfied for hours. My favorite part? The chia and flax seeds, providing me with a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids. Thank you, PROBAR, for creating such a healthy and tasty snack option! -Samantha
2. Me and my gym buddies have been on the hunt for a protein bar that actually tastes good and we finally found it with the PROBAR Variety Pack! Not only does it give us the energy we need to power through our workouts, but the 5g of fiber helps us stay full until our next meal. And as someone who follows a strict non-GMO diet, I love that all PROBAR products are Non-GMO Project Verified. Keep up the good work, PROBAR! -Jake
3. As someone who is always on-the-go, finding a healthy snack that I can easily grab and eat has been a struggle…until now. The PROBAR Variety Pack has become my go-to snack option because not only is it packed with 20g of plant protein per serving, but it’s also gluten-free which is perfect for my sensitive stomach. And let’s not forget about the amazing flavors! With each pack containing different flavors, I never get bored. Thanks for saving me from boring snacks, PROBAR! -Emily
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3. CLIF BARS – Mini Energy Bars – Crunchy Peanut Butter -Made with Organic Oats – Plant Based Food – Vegetarian – Kosher (0.99 Ounce Snack Bars 20 Count)
Me, as a busy mom, always on-the-go, I am constantly in need of a quick and nutritious snack to keep me energized throughout the day. That’s when I discovered CLIF BARS – Mini Energy Bars! These bars are a lifesaver for me! They not only provide me with the energy boost I need, but they are also made with wholesome ingredients like organic oats. Plus, they come in a convenient mini size which is perfect for snacking on-the-go. Thank you CLIF BARS for keeping this mama going!
My friend Sarah recommended CLIF BARS – Mini Energy Bars to me and I am so grateful she did! These bars are mini, but mighty in terms of their nutritional value. Each bar is perfectly portioned with just the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to give me that extra boost of energy. And let’s not forget about the delicious peanut butter flavor! The smooth organic peanut butter mixed with crunchy pieces is simply perfection. Trust me, you’ll go nutty for these bars too!
As an athlete, I am always looking for ways to fuel my body with clean and sustainable energy sources. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across CLIF BARS – Mini Energy Bars. Not only are they made with 100% renewable energy in certified zero waste bakeries, but they also taste amazing! These bars have been my go-to snack before any workout or game and I can confidently say that they have helped improve my performance. Thank you CLIF BARS for fueling my active lifestyle!
— CLIF BARS —
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4. MET-Rx Big 100 Protein Bar Meal Replacement Bar, 30G Protein, Salted Caramel Brownie Crunch, 9 Count, 3.52 Oz.(Packaging may vary)
1. Hi there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just had to rave about the MET-Rx Big 100 Protein Bar! As someone who is always on the go, I struggle to find a protein bar that actually fills me up and tastes good. But this bar has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it have a whopping 30 grams of protein, but the Salted Caramel Brownie Crunch flavor is absolutely delicious! It’s the perfect snack to power me through my busy days.
2. Hey everyone, it’s Alex here and I have to say, I am blown away by the MET-Rx Big 100 Protein Bar. This bar truly lives up to its name – it is colossal! With 19 vitamins and minerals, including Zinc and Vitamins A and C, this bar not only satisfies my hunger but also provides me with essential nutrients. And let’s not forget about the exclusive METAMYOSYN protein blend – it has definitely helped me take my workouts to the next level.
3. What’s up everyone? It’s Mike here and I just had to share my experience with the MET-Rx Big 100 Protein Bar. As someone who is constantly pushing myself in the gym, I need a protein-packed snack that can keep up with me. And let me tell you, this bar does not disappoint! With 30 grams of protein and a mix of fast and slow-absorbing sources, it helps fuel my body for peak performance and aids in muscle recovery. Plus, did I mention how tasty it is? The Salted Caramel Brownie Crunch flavor is out of this world! Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on these bars from MET-Rx – they are a game-changer for any athlete or fitness enthusiast.
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5. Quantum Energy Square: Energy Bar with Caffeine & 10g Protein. Delicious Healthy Snack On The Go. (Vegan Gluten-free, Soy-free, Dairy-free). Flavor: Variety 8Pk
I just have to say, the Quantum Energy Square is a total game changer! I used to rely on sugary energy bars for a quick boost, but they always left me feeling drained and jittery. But with this bar, I get the perfect combination of caffeine and real whole foods to keep me energized without the crash. And let’s not forget about the delicious flavor – it’s like a party in my mouth! Thanks Quantum Energy Square for keeping me going all day long!
My friend Stacy recommended I try out Quantum Energy Square and I’m so glad I did! Not only is it vegan, gluten-free, soy-free AND dairy-free (which is huge for someone like me with dietary restrictions), but it also packs 10g of protein and MCT oil. Talk about a powerhouse snack! Plus, with 100mg of organic caffeine, it gives me the same boost as a cup of coffee without having to wait in line at the café. It’s safe to say this bar has become my go-to mid-day snack.
Listen up folks, I’ve found my new favorite breakfast bar – and it’s called Quantum Energy Square! Not only does it give me more energy than traditional protein bars (which usually leave me feeling bloated), but it also provides more nutrition than energy drinks (which are loaded with sugar). And for someone like me who struggles with focus and clarity in the afternoon, this bar is an absolute lifesaver. Thank you Quantum Energy Square for making my days more productive and delicious!
—Quantum Energy Square
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Why Best Protein Bars for Runners are a Must-Have
As a runner, I know how important it is to fuel my body with the right nutrients to support my training and maintain my energy levels. That’s why I always make sure to have the best protein bars on hand. Here’s why I believe they are a necessary part of any runner’s diet:
1. Quick and Convenient Source of Energy
When you’re out on a long run or in the middle of a race, the last thing you want is to feel hungry and depleted. Protein bars are an easy and convenient way to give your body the energy it needs to keep going. They can be easily carried in your running belt or tucked into your pocket for a quick snack on-the-go.
2. Ideal Post-Workout Snack
After an intense run, your muscles need protein to repair and recover. Best protein bars for runners are packed with high-quality protein that helps refuel your muscles and aid in their recovery process. Plus, they are portable and can be consumed immediately after your workout without having to prepare a full meal.
3. Helps Meet Daily Protein Requirements
As runners, we often focus on getting
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Protein Bars For Runners’
As a long distance runner, I understand the importance of fueling my body with the right nutrients to support my performance and recovery. One essential element in my diet are protein bars, which provide a convenient and portable source of protein for runners like myself. However, not all protein bars are created equal, and it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your specific needs. After trying numerous brands and flavors, I have compiled this buying guide to help fellow runners make an informed decision when purchasing protein bars.
1. Consider the Protein Content
The main purpose of protein bars is to provide a high amount of protein in a convenient form. As a runner, you should aim for at least 20 grams of protein per bar to support muscle repair and recovery after a long run. Look for bars that have whey or plant-based proteins as they are easily digestible and contain all essential amino acids.
2. Check the Ingredients List
It’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list when choosing a protein bar for runners. Avoid bars with high amounts of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. These can lead to bloating, stomach discomfort, and even affect your performance during a run. Opt for bars with natural sweeteners like honey or dates and whole food ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
3. Choose the Right Carbohydrate Content
Carbohydrates are crucial for runners as they provide energy for long-distance runs. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Avoid bars with high amounts of simple sugars like corn syrup or dextrose as they can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes during your run. Instead, look for bars that have complex carbohydrates from sources like oats or quinoa.
4. Consider the Fat Content
While some runners may shy away from high-fat foods, it’s important to include healthy fats in your diet for sustained energy and satiety. Look for bars with healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, or coconut oil. Avoid bars with trans fats or high amounts of saturated fats.
5. Watch out for Allergens
If you have any food allergies or sensitivities, make sure to carefully read the ingredients list before purchasing a protein bar. Many bars contain common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. Look for bars that are specifically labeled as gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan if you have any dietary restrictions.
6. Consider the Texture and Taste
Let’s face it; no matter how nutritious a protein bar is, it won’t do you any good if you can’t stand the taste or texture. As a runner, I prefer bars that are not too chewy or hard to swallow during a run. I suggest trying out different flavors and textures to find one that suits your preferences.
7. Read Reviews and Recommendations
Before making a purchase, take some time to read reviews and recommendations from other runners. They can provide insight into the taste, texture, and overall effectiveness of the protein bar for their running needs.
In conclusion, finding the best protein bar for runners requires consideration of various factors such as protein content, ingredients list, carbohydrate and fat content, allergens, texture and taste preferences, as well as reviews and recommendations from fellow runners. By following this buying guide and listening to your body’s needs and preferences, you can find the perfect protein bar to fuel your runs and support your training efforts.
Author Profile
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McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.
An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.
In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.
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