Cycling Hydration Powders

Electrolytes play a crucial role in cycling performance. These essential minerals facilitate the electrical impulses that regulate muscle function and water balance within the body's cells. Sodium, potassium, and chloride are among the key electrolytes found in sweat, giving it that distinctive salty taste.

Cycling can lead to significant electrolyte loss through sweating, with an average cyclist shedding about 5 ounces (0.4 litres) of sweat in just 30 minutes of riding. Over the course of an hour, this translates to around 220mg of sodium, 63mg of potassium, 8mg of magnesium, and 16mg of calcium lost.

Depletion of electrolytes can hamper cycling performance and prolong recovery times. Low electrolyte levels can result in muscle cramps, heat stress, fatigue, headaches, reduced stamina, and even clotting issues in severe cases.

To replenish electrolytes effectively, it's important to match your intake with your body's natural profile, which can be determined through a sweat test. The Institute of Medicine recommends keeping sodium intake under 2000mg per day, while aiming for 4700mg of potassium, 330-350mg of magnesium, and 800mg of calcium.