Subject: RE: Electrolyte Replacement I swear by Succeed Ultra sports drink mix. It isn't sticky sweet and the carbs are gentler on the stomach so I never get cramps. I use it half strength in cooler weather or for shorter sessions. When it's really hot, or for going more than an hour, I add their buffer electrolyte caps. 1 per 30-60 minutes, depending on my sweating rate. For events longer than 4-6 hours, I use their CLIP drink mix, which adds amino acids and proteins (and some other stuff ). For big races, I like to use the pre and post recovery packs (packets of various vitamins, minerals, etc. ). The company was started by an ultramarathon runner, and that community is where I found out about it. You can find them online at www.ultrafit-endurance.com. I know I sound like a commercial for these guys - but the stuff really works, and after trying a ton of drinks and gels and having lots of unpleasant digestive stuff happen, I'm sticking with them! In any case, you are RIGHT ON to think about adding electrolytes when you are going long or sweating a lot. I've seen a lot of people think they were hydrating well by drinking lots of water, when in fact if the electrolyte balance is off, you're just in for some serious side effects, or death, the more you water down your blood. Good luck! Annabanana |