Hi all,
I've used electrolyte tabs in longer tris/marathons for a few seasons now. But I've never been sure how many I should take. I typically do about 3 before the start then 3-4 more about half-way through the race.
I'm wondering if there's a good, easy rule of thumb to determine how many e-tabs to use? I sweat a lot and hydrate well but am just wondering if I should be upping the e-tab intake, especially since my next race will be in the extreme west Texas heat.
Thanks!
I think a better strategy would be to take doses closer together. It also depends on which brand of tabs you're taking. I use Hammer Endurolytes and as far as dosing, I typically take 2-3 before the start of the swim and then 3 or more per hour, depending on heat during the rest of the race. The best rule of thumb for any nutrition is even portioning. You don't ever really want to go a long time without any aspect of your nutrition, water, carbs, electrolytes, etc. You don't want to put yourself into deficit then try to remedy the problem by dumping a lot of something in. Keep the levels constant, take tabs every 20-30 mins, thats my reccomendation.
good question...i've been dealing with nutrition and cramping issues. i've decided to go totally Hammer, and i'm concerned about mixing water only in with S.E....(my last race I had cramping and lightheadedness...imbalance of electrolytes). So have started experimenting with the e-caps myself.
i've been checking out Hammer's website forum: [U][url]http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/endurancelist/[/url][/U]. you can sign up there and ask specific questions about Hammer products...its been very helpful for me.