Isotonic Drink

In ancient Greek, 'iso' referred to equal and 'tonos' meant pressure - joining the two together gave the word 'isotonic'.

An isotonic or sports drink has the benefit of possessing electrolytes, which aid fluid absorption, and carbohydrates that provide the necessary fuel for the body to maintain peak performance and enhance post exercise recovery.

Historically, water was always the preferred choice for remaining hydrated throughout any endurance exercise, but it causes bloating and stimulates urine output - thereby making it inefficiently retained.

Drinking plain water can be a poor choice when a high fluid intake is necessary, as it contains none of the carbohydrate or electrolytes that promote a more rapid recovery after a session of strenuous exercise. During extreme endurance activities such as marathons, it is important that competitors drink beverages containing sodium electrolytes to avoid the potentially life threatening condition known as hyponatremia (a low blood sodium level).


Consumption guidelines:
- Before competition or training: 300-600 mL (0.8mL/kg weight).
- During physical activity: 150-250 mL every 15-20 minutes.
- Recovery: drink 500-1000 mL per kg of weight lost during exercise.
- The liquid should be isotonic and served at about 15°C.