I regularly play field hockey, and although I’m not a top athlete, I enjoy the exercise and make the most of running around a lot! I used to suffer after a game, being dehydrated and feeling rough. After a bit of research, I decided to try Science In Sport GO Electrolyte Powder.
According to the Science in Sport (SiS) website, GO Electrolyte powder contains:
“a blend of an easily digestible and quick supply of carbohydrate as well as electrolytes (such as sodium) that promote optimal hydration.”
This certainly sounds scientific, but what would the impact be?
They also stated that its “combination of energy sources and electrolytes enhance your body’s ability to absorb water during exercise, maintain your endurance performance and protect against cramp.”
Whilst I don’t know the validity of that statement, I did suffer from cramp in games. Anything that would help stop me cramping would definitely be worth trying.
I purchased the 1.6KG tub, opting for the Lemon & Lime flavour. They do other flavours as well: Tropical; Blackcurrant; Raspberry; Orange.
Using the Powder
The tub comes with a plastic scoop, which is a 20g dose. You need to add 2 of these for a 500ml bottle of water. I use a 750ml bottle, so add 3 scoops. Science in Sport recommend drinking 500ml for every 45-60 minutes of exercise.
This will depend on your circumstances for how much you need. I tend to sweat a lot when playing hockey. I take two 750ml bottles for each 70 minute match, to ensure I’m fully hydrated.
It can be a little messy trying to get the powder from the scoop into the bottle. I use a funnel I have in my kitchen to ease the pouring of the powder into the bottle.
Then it’s just a case of filling up with water and giving it a good shake. Drink within 24 hours of preparing, according to SiS. I’m not sure why, but that’s what they say!
Does it Work?
I have found the drink to be excellent, doing exactly what I hoped it would. It works a treat at keeping me hydrated, but more importantly it helps keep me feeling unjaded and has really reduced the chances of me cramping during a normal 70 minute match. In addition, I feel a lot better the next day, not suffering the same level of fatigue.
I have now used this Science In Sport GO Electrolyte Powder for many years, and ensure that I have a fresh supply whenever it’s running low. I have only used the Lemon & Lime flavour because I like it, and don’t feel the need to change.
SiS state on their website that the product is suitable for Vegans, Vegetarians, Lactose free, Gluten Free, Wheat Free, Nut Free, Soya Free.
Another key factor in my choice of Science in Sport Go Electrolyte powder was the recyclability of the pack. There is a 1 recycling symbol on the base, meaning it is PET plastic. This is the most widely recycled type. PET can be recycled into polyester fabric as well as filling for for things such as fleeces, cushions, and making carpets.
Servings
The pack I buy is 1.6kg, and with a dose for a 500ml bottle being 40g, this means you get 40 servings from this, which costs approximately £17. This means a serving costs 42p. For my use, I get through 120g per match, so a pack lasts me for 13 matches, costing £1.30 per match. I consider this to be well worth it, as it really does make my post-match so much easier. When you start to get this old, you need to take extra measures! You can get your Science In Sport GO Electrolyte Powder here.
If you play field hockey, check out my review of the Shammy Shack Custom Pro Chamois Hockey Grip…