Hydration

​If you're taking on an endurance challenge like the 2026 Infinite Trails, if you compete in a sport with weight cutting, like boxing or MMA, intend to spend a day in the sauna, or just have a general interest in your hydration, this info is for you!​

​

1. Optimising hydration requires more than water.

2. Many variables affect hydration.

​

Key Info

• Electrolytes help maintain the amount of fluid in cells and circulating, with sodium being particularly important.

• Electrolytes also support nerve and muscle function, among other things.

• Drinking lots of water without electrolytes reduces electrolyte concentration.

• Electrolytes in water help restore and regulate fluid balance and retention.

• Good fluid levels improve temperature regulation, and reduce cardiovascular load.

• Exercise that involves a lot of sweating is where electrolytes are most important.

• Taking electrolytes before or after such exercise can be helpful.

​

Electrolyte Mix v.s Salt Tablets

Salt tablets can be hard for the body to break down (8), while our electrolyte mix, Elektro, is easily diluted. The small amount of carbohydrate in Elektro also helps transport water and electrolytes into cells (12).

​

Our electrolyte values are based on the composition of sweat (12), while we believe you’ll agree Elektro tastes better! It has the same, natural flavour as our carb mix- Fuel - they can be used together.

​

 Factors Motivating Hydration

Thirst often lags behind dehydration - the following factors may also prevent you consuming enough fluids (14):

• Taste - the right balance of sweetness and saltiness motivates fluid consumption; this is why Elektro is not too sweet or salty.

• Temperature - in cool conditions, people usually consume less than they need.

• Visibility - if you see liquids, you’ll likely drink more.

 

Remember - WUT!

Exercise physiologist Dr Andy Galpin also presents the WUT method (12), which can be used to indicate hydration status. The more of the following markers are suboptimal the more likely you are dehydrated:

1. Weight - is your weight low (given typical fluctuations)

2. Urine colour - the darker it is the less likely you’re hydrated

3. Thirst - more thirst means you’re more likely dehydrated

 

You may also consider the saltiness of your sweat, and the amount of salt visible on skin or clothing after activity (12). Meanwhile, for the most precise measure of electrolyte loss during exercise, you may need to consult an exercise physiologist, who would carry out a personal assessment (14).

 

Other Hydration Variables

Whatever decision you make, consider the following variables affecting hydration (15); 

• Acclimatisation status

• Air flow

• Altitude

• Ambient temperature

• Body size and composition

• Caffeine - typically increases hydration needs

• Clothing

• Exercise duration

• Exercise intensity

• Health status

• Humidity

• Hydration level before exercise

• Radiant heat

• Sex - men typically have more muscle, which require more water

• Supplements - for example, creatine may require additional water

 

You may use our mixes immediately post-workout, to help with refuelling and rehydration, with fluid loss measured through weight change.