Energy drink

I’ve being using High5’s Energy Source 4:1 drink mix for some time now, with positive results. Like most drink mixes, it comes in power form, which you combine with water, but unlike some other types of energy food (be it drink, bar or gel), which are solely carbohydrate based, Energy Source 4:1 drink mix is, as the name implies, four parts carbo to one part protein.

The energy in Zipvit’s ZV1 is provided by a combination of Maldex 6 (a form of maltodextrin), which is absorbed as quickly as glucose, and sucrose (plain old table sugar).

It provides you with nearly 32g of carbs and 129 calories of energy per 35g serving – you mix two scoops with 250ml of water, give it a good shake to mix it in and then top it up with another 250ml of water. On top of that, you get plenty of electrolytes to replace the minerals that you lose through sweat, including sodium, calcium and magnesium.

This drink is designed to recharge your muscles both during and after exercise, giving you 167 calories of energy in a 500ml mix (a standard water bottle), including nearly 30g of carbs. You also get 6g of protein, so it’s a 5:1 carbs: protein mix, give or take. That’s enough stats.

Motor tabs score over traditional supplements by coupling carbohydrates with the time honoured electrolyte replenishment to give welcome fuel on longer rides. The starter kit consists of four Motor Tab tablets and a 500ml bottle. Sold separately Motor Tabs are £1.15 each or £24.99 for a pack of 24.