Why bicarbonate may matter more when fatigue sets in

In this episode of UNLOCKING PERFORMANCE, Robert Gorgos looks at a new study exploring one of the most important but often overlooked aspects of endurance racing: durability. Endurance performance is usually measured in a rested state, but races are rarely decided when athletes are fresh. They are often decided after hours of accumulated fatigue, when power, efficiency, and physiological capacity have already begun to decline. Robert breaks down research from Liverpool John Moores University examining whether sodium bicarbonate, delivered during prolonged exercise through MNSTRY BICARB Gel 40, could help preserve performance after three hours of cycling. The episode looks at the study design, the effects on sprint performance, 12-minute time-trial power, critical power, blood bicarbonate and pH, and why the results suggest bicarbonate may have a specific role in protecting late-race performance rather than simply improving fresh, high-intensity efforts. Robert also explores what these findings could mean in practice, including whether bicarbonate is best distributed across a race or timed more strategically before decisive efforts such as late climbs, attacks, or surges. A closer look at durability, fatigue resistance, and what new research may tell us about using bicarbonate when performance matters most. If you’re a new customer, use code MNSTRYPODCAST20 to get 20% off your TASTING BOX. Visit our shop at www.mnstry.com If you want to dive deeper into the science behind performance nutrition, you can find more articles, practical guidance, and insights from our team of experts on our blog. And if you’d like to learn more about MNSTRY, our products, and the philosophy behind what we do, you can explore everything on our website. If you have questions about this episode or want to share your thoughts with us, we’re always happy to hear from you by email or Instagram. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | BLOG