Howdy all,
I made this a preference vs. "BEST" because everyone gives people grief about "there is no BEST drink, just what YOU prefer", so here it is.
A few weeks ago I went on my first 50+ mile ride (most of it hills). It was a very hot day and I took a full camel back of water and then one water bottle of water and another of gatorade. I brought a balance bar for some extra carbs. Needless to say, I learned the hard way that I was wayyyy underprepared. Although I was plenty hydrated I started cramping very bad in my calves and then major cramping in my triceps while on the hoods. Every inch of my jersey, shorts, and skin was covered in a white chalk called...salt. (LOL I was in the hurt locker big time!) I went to my LBS and talked to some of the guys there who gave me the all too knowing "Rookie" grin. "Gatorade is worthless, they said and any water is too much water." They guys there recommended Cytomax due to its protein, increased sodium and potassium over gatorade and its ability to hydrate, give energy, prolong endurance and prevent cramping from electrolyte loss. Plus, with the protein it aids in recovery.
They also stock accelerade and endurox and they said they all do about the same as the cytomax.
I have heard about the flat coke for quick pick me ups for end of race sprints and stuff, but i was curious to know what drinks you long-distance gurus use for your 25+ mile rides and why. I also brink a banana and extra protein bar on the long ones too.
Thanks for your input.
I made this a preference vs. "BEST" because everyone gives people grief about "there is no BEST drink, just what YOU prefer", so here it is.
A few weeks ago I went on my first 50+ mile ride (most of it hills). It was a very hot day and I took a full camel back of water and then one water bottle of water and another of gatorade. I brought a balance bar for some extra carbs. Needless to say, I learned the hard way that I was wayyyy underprepared. Although I was plenty hydrated I started cramping very bad in my calves and then major cramping in my triceps while on the hoods. Every inch of my jersey, shorts, and skin was covered in a white chalk called...salt. (LOL I was in the hurt locker big time!) I went to my LBS and talked to some of the guys there who gave me the all too knowing "Rookie" grin. "Gatorade is worthless, they said and any water is too much water." They guys there recommended Cytomax due to its protein, increased sodium and potassium over gatorade and its ability to hydrate, give energy, prolong endurance and prevent cramping from electrolyte loss. Plus, with the protein it aids in recovery.
They also stock accelerade and endurox and they said they all do about the same as the cytomax.
I have heard about the flat coke for quick pick me ups for end of race sprints and stuff, but i was curious to know what drinks you long-distance gurus use for your 25+ mile rides and why. I also brink a banana and extra protein bar on the long ones too.
Thanks for your input.