We’re all trying to do as much as we can to stay sane in uncertain times, and for many, solace lies in a regular exercise routine or at the very least, a daily walk. And rehydration is essential, especially if you’ve exercised intensely or broken a sweat. 

Whether your workout was 45 minutes of strength training, a 5km run or an online yoga class, you probably need to drink some fluids. Rehydration is an essential part of recovery – it helps lower temperature and heart rate, lubricate joints, repair muscles, ward off muscle cramps, ease fatigue and keeps the digestion process working properly. And of course, it helps prevent dehydration. 

But what is the ideal way to rehydrate after a spin around the block? Read on for five of the best post-workout drinks for hydration, refuelling and more…

Water

Water is a natural source of hydration that your body needs. And it’s free! In addition, since it has no calories or fat, you don’t risk undoing your exercise efforts like you would by reaching for a high-calorie, high-sugar beverage.

Water is needed by both casual exercisers and hardcore athletes, and ideally, we should all be drinking before, during and after workouts. Sparkling water works just as well as plain tap water, and throw in a little lemon juice or cucumber slices to keep things interesting if you find the lack of flavour an issue. 

Oh and if you sweat a lot during your workout and are concerned about fluid loss – but don’t necessarily want a sports drink – just add a pinch of salt. And if you tend to feel a little low in blood sugar after your workouts, a pinch of sugar is just the ticket.  

Coconut Water

Delicious tasting and great for you, coconut water is a good source of some electrolytes and is low-fat, with far less sugar and calories than many sports drinks.  Coconut water is abundant in electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium. So if you’re having a full-on sweat session, the electrolytes in coconut water can help regulate fluid balance, prevent dehydration, and even ensure proper muscle function. 

If you’re a casual exerciser, just a glass or two is more than enough to rehydrate, but if you’re an athlete you may need more, as you should be replacing the amount of fluid you lost in sweat. 

Vegetable Juice

Vegetables are an essential nutrient source to keep your body feeling and working its best, so why not kill two birds with one stone and use your favourite green juice to refuel after exercise? Juices that contain leafy greens, beets, carrots, and other super-powered veggies provide the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants needed to support muscle recovery and rehydration post-workout. So crank up your juicer before you hit the streets and have a chilled hit of goodness ready when you get home.

Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherry juice is rich in antioxidants, and several studies have found that it helps reduce exercise-induced muscle damage, inflammation and soreness after training or an athletic event. The high-water content also helps replace water lost in sweating, and runners, in particular, seem to benefit the most from tart cherry juice and its considerable charms. For best results, it’s recommended that you drink 10 ounces before and 30 minutes after a workout. 

Smoothies

Post-workout smoothies are a great option because they are super easy to make and quickly digested. Throw your favourite fruits and vegetables in with your liquid and protein source of choice — like coconut water, almond milk, Greek yoghurt, or protein powder — to custom make the smoothie of your dreams. Even better? Throw in 1 scoop/2 t IMBIBE Beauty Miracle Collagen Powder so you’re helping your skin cells produce more collagen and strengthen the hair and nails too.