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From magnesium waters to electrolyte drinks – your round-up of workout companions
Written byEmily Coates
Reviewed byLeila Weller-Kis
From magnesium water to electrolytes, soluble tablets and gels, there are lots of ways to replenish and refresh as you work up a sweat. We ask our in-house nutritionist how it all works
Our top picks
Energy support, wherever you are
Holland & Barrett
Holland & Barrett Hydration + Energy Support Pineapple Guava 14 Sachets
€12.00
Lime and bergamot fizz with magnesium
BetterYou
BetterYou Magnesium Still Water Hydrate (Citrus & Botanicals) 250ml
Save up to 1/2 Price
€1.95
€2.59
Replenish essential electrolytes
Precision Engineered
Hydration & Energy Effervescent Orange 20 Tablets
Buy 1 Get 1 Free
€6.00
Most of us know that staying hydrated is key to feeling our best. Water helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients to cells and keep our organs functioning as they should.1 But when you’re working up a sweat – especially if you’re getting out in the sun, training for longer or pushing a bit harder than usual – hydration isn’t always quite so straightforward. Our nutritionist, Leila Weller-Kis, explains: “Electrolytes help regulate fluid balance in the body, supporting the movement of water to where it’s needed and helping maintain normal muscle and nerve function.”
As you sweat, your body loses not only fluid but also electrolytes – essential minerals that help maintain fluid balance and support normal bodily functions.2 That means simply drinking water may not always be enough during longer workouts, high-intensity sessions or outdoor training in the heat. We’ve rounded up a selection of products to support you through any workout – whether you’re hitting the gym, getting outside in the sun or powering through a tougher session.
Electrolyte tablets vs sports drinks vs powders: what’s the difference?
When it comes to workout hydration, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The right option depends on your routine, environment and personal preference.
- Electrolyte tablets – convenient, portable and easy to add to water on the go
- Sports drinks – ready-to-drink options that combine fluids, electrolytes and often carbohydrates
- Powders – versatile mixes that let you tailor the consistency and taste
Quick comparison table
| Format | Best for | Key benefits | When to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrolyte tablets | On-the-go | Lightweight, easy to carry, low sugar options | Gym sessions, travel, quick top-ups |
| Sports drinks | Convenience | Ready to drink, often include carbs | Endurance training, long sessions |
| Powders | Customisable support | Can include electrolytes, vitamins, adaptogens | Daily hydration, tailored routines |
Our top hydration picks for workouts
Looking for a caffeine free option? These hydration + energy effervescent tablets are a convenient option – simply pop them in your bag and you’re set whenever you want a quick flavourful moment of refreshment. Ideal for busy days, gym sessions or staying hydrated in warmer weather. Each tablet contains scientifically studied enXtra™ – Thai ginger extract, designed to deliver a caffeine-free alternative – and vitamin B12 to support energy levels, helping reduce tiredness and fatigue.
Alongside this, a blend of electrolytes contributes to normal hydration and fluid balance. You’ll also find calcium in the mix, which contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes, and with vitamin B12 contributing to the normal functioning of the nervous system, it brings an extra layer of support to your daily routine. Simply dissolve one tablet in water to enjoy a refreshing pineapple and guava drink.
Forgot your pre-workout? These effervescent tablets are an easy, portable way to stay topped up – particularly useful during hot weather or high-intensity sessions where sweat loss is higher.
Each tablet provides 50% of your daily vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation for bones and cartilage, as well as supporting immune function.5-8 You’ll also find key minerals including potassium which contributes to normal muscle function, with magnesium helping maintain normal electrolyte balance. Simply dissolve one tablet in water to create a refreshing orange drink whenever you need it.
Dextrose is a naturally occurring sugar and a primary source of energy for the body, making it a convenient option during longer workouts or demanding activities. These orange tablets deliver 88% dextrose alongside vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system.3
What our customers say: “I absolutely love this product! They melt in the mouth.”
Magnesium plays an important role in energy metabolism, helping convert food into usable energy.4 It also contributes to electrolyte balance and normal muscle function. This ready-to-drink option offers a simple way to support hydration while topping up magnesium levels – particularly helpful during periods of increased sweating.
Powder formats offer flexibility, making them ideal if you want to tailor your intake depending on your activity levels. This blend combines five key electrolytes with B vitamins and magnesium to support fluid balance and energy metabolism. Magnesium contributes to electrolyte balance, while vitamin's B1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 supports energy yielding metabolism.5,6 Use before, during or after exercise as part of your usual routine to support hydration and energy.
Electrolytes for exercise FAQs
Electrolyte tablets are often more portable and lower in sugar, while sports drinks are ready to consume and may include carbohydrates. The best option depends on your workout intensity and convenience needs.
Drink fluids regularly, your fluid needs can vary depending on factors like temperature and how much you sweat. Some people choose electrolyte products especially during longer more intense activity.
The final say
Hydration plays an essential role in overall wellbeing, particularly when training regularly or exercising in warmer conditions. Choosing a format that suits your routine – whether tablets, drinks or powders – can help you stay consistent and feeling good with your hydration habits.
Wondering how else to support your daily routine? Tuck into these muscle recovery foods or explore more on hydration, energy and performance. And if things are heating up, don't sweat it – discover whether adding electrolytes could be a useful part of your exercise plan.
Disclaimer – The subjective customer reviews should not be regarded as medical or health advice; no reliance should therefore be placed on them; and they are not endorsed by Holland & Barrett. If you have any health problems or questions regarding the suitability of any product, please contact a health professional. This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
1. NHS Fife. Caffeine [Internet]. NHS Fife [reviewed 2020 May; cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://www.nhsfife.org/media/f7r7z2nz/caffeine-handout.pdf
2. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6485
3. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6432
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5. NHS. Vitamin C [Internet]. NHS [reviewed 2020 Aug 3; cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/
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8. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6510
9. NHS. Vitamins and minerals – others [Internet]. NHS [reviewed 2020 Aug 3; cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/others/
10. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6402
11. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6405
12. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2025 Jul 23]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6401
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