Match the panel to the session
Short indoor sessions are usually a moderate-sodium, low-sugar choice. Longer efforts push the sodium figure up and make declared carbohydrate useful rather than unwanted. Heat pushes sodium up again, because sweat losses rise with temperature and humidity.
Our category pages encode exactly these differences, and each one states its target range and ordering rule in plain language so nothing is hidden behind a score.
| Session | Declared figures that matter most | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Gym hour, indoors | Moderate sodium, lower sugar and calories | Gym category |
| Sub-hour run | Sodium, with sugar to taste | Running category |
| Multi-hour effort | Sodium plus carbohydrate | Endurance category |
| Hot weather | Sodium above all else | Heat category |
| Long low-intensity day outdoors | Steady sodium, lower sugar load | Golf category |
Format matters during exercise
During a session the practical questions are whether it fits a bottle, a pocket or a jersey, and whether you can split a serving across more water. Tablets are the most packable and declare the smallest servings; sticks and packets sit in between; tubs are for filling bottles before you leave.
Individual variation
Sweat rate and sweat sodium differ between people and between days, so two athletes in the same session can reasonably choose different products. This page is general information about product labelling, not medical, dietary or coaching advice; consult a qualified professional for a personal plan.
Category pages
Side-by-side comparisons
Data and method
General information disclaimer
This page is general information about product labelling and nutrition, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual needs vary. Consult a qualified health professional about your own hydration, sodium intake or medical conditions.