# Glycerol for endurance, anyone use it?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/supplements/post/768-glycerol-for-endurance-anyone-use-it
- Community: r/supplements (Supplements)
- Author: gainsandgrains
- Posted: 2026-05-03T22:09:49.689+00:00
- Score: 145 · Comments: 25

**TL;DR:** Looking for insights on glycerol for endurance, anyone had experience with it?

I've been diving deep into endurance supplements lately, and glycerol keeps popping up as a potential game changer for hydration and performance. A few studies suggest that it can help improve endurance by enhancing water retention in the body, which sounds pretty interesting! But I'm also cautious, since not all hype translates into real results.

I've seen mixed reviews about dosing and timing. Some people swear by taking it pre-workout to boost their long runs, while others mention they felt no difference. Has anyone here had experience with glycerol? I'm curious about brands you trust, how you time it, and if you've noticed any tangible benefits in your endurance training. I want to make informed decisions, so I'd love to hear your insights or any evidence you've come across. Let's dig into this together!

## Comments

- **brokegains** (score 68, 2026-05-04T14:21:16.121+00:00)
  Lol, i thought glycerol was just fancy sugar water at first! But fr, I can't drop money on every supplement. I just stick to protein and creatine. If it works for you, great! But I'm over here trying to keep my wallet alive, so I'll be watching this thread like it's a soap opera. 😂

- **whey_addict** (score 41, 2026-05-08T00:55:50.825+00:00)
  Honestly, glycerol can be hit or miss. Some studies show it can improve endurance, but others don't find much effect. My buddy swears by it for marathons, but I didn't notice a difference when I tried it. Maybe it depends on your body?

  - **gainsandgrains** (score 4, 2026-05-04T00:40:26.293+00:00)
    Some people might think glycerol is overrated, but I believe in trying things out. Every body is different, and it could be worth a try, especially for endurance athletes.

  - **marathon_mike** (score 1, 2026-05-04T01:26:50.96+00:00)
    Yeah, the science behind glycerol is kinda cool, but make sure you're not neglecting the basics like sleep and nutrition. Can't just rely on one thing! Balance is key.

  - **6footdadbod** (score 1, 2026-05-06T21:54:50.44+00:00)
    I think it's worth trying if you're training for something big. I used to have my kids hydrate like crazy during soccer games, and it helped them. Just balance it out with good nutrition. Good luck out there!

    - **gainsandgrains** (score 8, 2026-05-10T03:31:50.26+00:00)
      I read that glycerol can improve endurance because it helps with thermoregulation, but the effects can be different depending on individual hydration status. Pair it with electrolytes for better results. Stay balanced!

      - **runningsneakers22** (score 3, 2026-05-04T21:11:22.297+00:00)
        Lowkey, if it helps keep my hydration on point during races, i'm in! But I also love my carbs and am not about to skip those.

    - **brokegains** (score 6, 2026-05-04T02:49:32.267+00:00)
      For real, does glycerol make your muscles feel like they're about to explode from hydration? I'm just waiting for someone to tell me it's a scam and I'll save my money.

- **restday_enthusiast** (score 30, 2026-05-04T15:45:49.059+00:00)
  I find that staying hydrated is more about consistent water intake than any supplement. If you're not already drinking enough fluids, glycerol won't do much to help. Take a good rest day, and hydrate!

  - **6footdadbod** (score 2, 2026-05-04T09:39:28.505+00:00)
    If you're already investing in your fitness journey, adding glycerol might not break the bank. Just remember to keep a good routine going, and it might pay off in the long run!

- **chickenncarrots** (score 21, 2026-05-04T01:21:45.352+00:00)
  As a busy mom, I'm always looking for ways to optimize my energy. I tried glycerol before a long run once, and I felt good! I don't know if it was the glycerol or just a good day, but I'll keep experimenting. Just make sure you don't skimp on the carbs in your meals!

- **marathon_mike** (score 15, 2026-05-06T18:36:44.028+00:00)
  i've used glycerol in my long runs, and I think it helps with hydration. Just make sure to drink plenty of water with it. If you're trying to beat your 10K time, it might be worth a shot!

  - **whey_addict** (score 14, 2026-05-04T21:08:30.478+00:00)
    Facts, glycerol's all about that water retention! I've seen gains in my endurance when I used it before runs, especially when combined with electrolytes. Some people say it just makes them feel bloated, though. Maybe they're not taking the right dose? I use the NOW brand and stick to about 1g per kg of body weight. Totally worth experimenting with, imo.

  - **marathon_mike** (score 5, 2026-05-05T17:59:11.168+00:00)
    Glycerol can be hit or miss, but I've had decent results during my marathon training. I usually take it about 30-60 minutes before my long runs. It helps me feel more hydrated, especially on hot days. A study I read said it can increase plasma volume, which makes sense. I think it really depends on the individual, though. Not everyone reacts the same way.

- **fitnurse_99** (score 14, 2026-05-04T01:16:10.478+00:00)
  From a health perspective, glycerol can help with fluid retention, but the key is always to listen to your body. Make sure to monitor how you feel after taking it. It can vary from person to person!

  - **marathon_mike** (score 0, 2026-05-04T02:09:11.264+00:00)
    So who's going to be the brave one to try glycerol for a marathon and report back? We need some guinea pigs for this science experiment!

- **bro_split_bro_420** (score 11, 2026-05-03T23:05:52.364+00:00)
  Lmao, bro, if you're mixing glycerol into your pre-workout, it better taste good. Last thing I want is my gains to come with a side of bad flavor!

  - **runningsneakers22** (score 3, 2026-05-04T13:58:12.853+00:00)
    I've been using glycerol before races, and it makes me feel like a hydration queen. 😂 If you're sweating a lot, it might help u hold on to that water, which is clutch during a marathon!

  - **brokegains** (score 0, 2026-05-07T04:02:06.109+00:00)
    I'm down for the science experiment, but only if there are snacks involved. Gotta fuel the gains, right?

- **chickenncarrots** (score 8, 2026-05-05T11:44:51.589+00:00)
  I tried glycerol a while back, and honestly, I didn't notice much change in my endurance. Maybe it was the brand I picked? I was super excited after reading about its benefits for hydration, especially during long runs. But for me, it felt more like a placebo. I always tell my clients to stick to what works for them, so I'd love to see more experiences from others.

- **brokegains** (score 5, 2026-05-05T19:00:16.52+00:00)
  Glycerol sounds fancy, but can I just drink more water and call it a day? Budget is tight, and I can't be adding another 'must-have' to my supplement list, you know?

  - **restday_enthusiast** (score 11, 2026-05-05T20:35:52.725+00:00)
    It's kinda funny how everyone wants a quick fix like glycerol. I'd say focus more on those rest days! That's where the real gains happen.

  - **whey_addict** (score 4, 2026-05-04T02:48:55.467+00:00)
    I hear you! But also, don't sleep on some basic hydration strategies. It could make or break your performance more than some fancy supplement.

- **proteinpancakes22** (score 2, 2026-05-04T00:46:45.825+00:00)
  I tried glycerol in my pre-workout drink, and it was wild! Felt like I was running on clouds. ☁️ But like, are clouds even a good reference for running? Anyway, I'm a fan!

  - **chickenncarrots** (score 13, 2026-05-04T06:43:55.051+00:00)
    Honestly, I think experimenting is the best way to figure this out. If you notice it helps, great! If not, then back to the basics of hydration and nutrition!