![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_66a7b36a93bde.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afef2b0f5.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afeeb8105.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afeb797b4.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afef86692.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afd473567.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afd3553fd.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afd28c29f.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afd506732.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afd237e1c.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afcdb0c90.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afcec1760.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afccb9f3b.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afca6b24a.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc9e2365.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc9322ff.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc9abd83.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc8d4886.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc7b6ebc.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc269014.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc1b62df.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afc248b6e.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbf209e5.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbeb3d0a.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbe6619c.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbcd0074.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbc45fdc.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afbaeacfa.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afba300f7.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_64c7afb847dcd.jpg)
![The best pre- and post-workout drinks](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_66a7b3c0e7277.jpg)
See Also
See Again
© Shutterstock
0 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout
- Whether you work out regularly or do it casually, there are a few drinks that can help you perform better and maximize the time you spend exercising. Let’s take a look at some natural drinks that can help energize your next workout.
© Shutterstock
1 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: coffee
- Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that reduces fatigue and increases energy levels, making it a great pre-workout drink.
© Shutterstock
2 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: green tea
- Similar to coffee, green tea also contains caffeine. In addition, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea may also help increase your metabolism, potentially aiding fat loss.
© Shutterstock
3 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: beetroot juice
- Beetroot contains dietary nitrate, making it a great alternative to nitric oxide (NO) pre-workout supplements. Nitrate naturally converts to NO, leading to increased circulation, better performance, and vasodilation (aka “muscle pump”).
© Shutterstock
4 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: watermelon juice
- Watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which also increases NO levels, leading to increased blood flow and lower blood pressure.
© Shutterstock
5 / 31 Fotos
Post workout
- Post workout, it's all about recovery. The idea is to replenish your body, which may include carbohydrates, protein, and electrolytes (depending on the type of activity and the intensity of the workout, among other factors). Let’s take a look at some post-workout drinks.
© Shutterstock
6 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: milk
- Milk may have lost some popularity as a healthy drink, but it contains a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Not to mention that it’s satiating, easily accessible, and cheap.
© Shutterstock
7 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: milk
- Opt for low-fat milk and benefit from its high protein content, as well as a number of vitamins and calcium. If you don’t experience any gastrointestinal issues with dairy, then milk will work great in replenishing your body after exercise.
© Shutterstock
8 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: chocolate milk
- Milk is a great source of protein, but chocolate contains an even better ratio of carbs to protein. While this might not be relevant to those who engage in sporadic recreational sports activities, it may benefit people who work out regularly.
© Shutterstock
9 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: chocolate milk
- A 2009 study, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, found that chocolate milk was superior to carbohydrate supplements when it came to recovery.
© Shutterstock
10 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: coconut water
- A certain level of dehydration is fairly common at the end of a workout. This, of course, varies, depending on the sport, temperature, duration, etc. Either way, electrolytes lost through sweat must be replenished, and coconut water might just be the right drink to do it.
© Shutterstock
11 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: coconut water
- Unlike sports drinks, coconut water doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, but it will equally provide your body with much-needed chloride, sodium, and potassium. This makes unsweetened coconut water a great option to rehydrate post exercise.
© Shutterstock
12 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: tart cherry juice
- Exercise causes inflammation. Consuming high quantities of antioxidants post workout might not be optimal, as it might hinder the body’s adaptation response to the stress. But in the right, small quantities, it can help reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress. Tart cherry juice might just be the right tool for the job.
© Shutterstock
13 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: tart cherry juice
- Tart cherry juice is packed with antioxidants. More specifically, phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and flavonols, among others. Consuming it may reduce muscle damage, especially after very taxing workouts.
© Shutterstock
14 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: cranberry juice
- Cranberries contain rich plant compounds known as proanthocyanidins (a class of polyphenols). These are often associated with the prevention of UTIs, but may also have a positive impact on blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall heart health.
© Shutterstock
15 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: cranberry juice
- Polyphenols are antioxidants, so, in addition to the general health benefits, they may also aid recovery post workout.
© Shutterstock
16 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: iced tea
- Iced tea is not only refreshing, but the catechins and tannins have an antioxidant effect that can help reduce free radical damage.
© Shutterstock
17 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: iced tea
- Iced tea may also stimulate osteoblast activity (bone forming), which means that it’s also good for your bone health.
© Shutterstock
18 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: kombucha
- Exercise is a stressor, and one of its effects can be a microbial imbalance. As such, a drink that provides probiotic support may be helpful for some people. Kombucha is one of those drinks.
© Shutterstock
19 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: kombucha
- This fermented drink is made from water, tea, sugar, yeast, and bacteria, providing probiotic benefits as well as hydrating you. It’s worth noting that kombucha is carbonated, which some people might not like.
© Shutterstock
20 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: protein shake
- A protein shake has become many people’s go-to drink. Whey protein, in particular, has a fast absorption rate, when compared to slow-digesting proteins such as casein. Both, however, can be beneficial.
© Shutterstock
21 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: protein shake
- You may also opt for adding a source of carbohydrates in the shake to replenish glycogen levels. However you chose to do it, a protein shake (regardless of the type of protein) is a sure bet.
© Shutterstock
22 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: electrolyte sports drinks
- Vigorous exercise can easily deplete our bodies, and these drinks work great in the presence of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
© Shutterstock
23 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: electrolyte sports drinks
- These should, however, be reserved for strenuous, long (over an hour) endurance sessions. These drinks have a fairly high sugar content too, so unless glycogen reserves get depleted and mild dehydration occurs, consuming them might not be that beneficial.
© Shutterstock
24 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: vegetable juice
- Veggies are not just good for your overall health. They can also work wonders for post-workout recovery. Many of these have high nitrate content and are packed with carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
© Shutterstock
25 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: vegetable juice
- You can either make a smoothie yourself, or buy ready-made vegetable juice. Give them a try!
© Shutterstock
26 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: orange juice
- Good ol’ OJ also has a place in post-workout nutrition. Rich in vitamin C and carbohydrates, it will help you recover after exercise.
© Shutterstock
27 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: orange juice
- A 2019 study found that “a single serving of 100% OJ provides a palatable, thirst quenching option that will not induce GI distress.”
© Shutterstock
28 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: beer
- Yes, you read that correctly. It turns out beer can be an option when it comes to post-workout drinks, according to a 2021 systematic review in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism.
© Shutterstock
29 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: beer
- Alcohol will hinder recovery and make dehydration worse, but light beer, under 4% ABV (alcohol by volume), in moderation, may help replenish glycogen levels and help balance fluids. After all, if you remove the alcohol, beer is a fermented drink made of water, hops, and malted cereals. Sources: (Health Digest) (BarBend) (StyleCraze) (International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism) (Journal of Nutrition and Health Sciences) (International Society of Sports Nutrition) See also: Facts about alcohol that will shock you
© Shutterstock
30 / 31 Fotos
© Shutterstock
0 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout
- Whether you work out regularly or do it casually, there are a few drinks that can help you perform better and maximize the time you spend exercising. Let’s take a look at some natural drinks that can help energize your next workout.
© Shutterstock
1 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: coffee
- Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that reduces fatigue and increases energy levels, making it a great pre-workout drink.
© Shutterstock
2 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: green tea
- Similar to coffee, green tea also contains caffeine. In addition, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea may also help increase your metabolism, potentially aiding fat loss.
© Shutterstock
3 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: beetroot juice
- Beetroot contains dietary nitrate, making it a great alternative to nitric oxide (NO) pre-workout supplements. Nitrate naturally converts to NO, leading to increased circulation, better performance, and vasodilation (aka “muscle pump”).
© Shutterstock
4 / 31 Fotos
Pre workout: watermelon juice
- Watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which also increases NO levels, leading to increased blood flow and lower blood pressure.
© Shutterstock
5 / 31 Fotos
Post workout
- Post workout, it's all about recovery. The idea is to replenish your body, which may include carbohydrates, protein, and electrolytes (depending on the type of activity and the intensity of the workout, among other factors). Let’s take a look at some post-workout drinks.
© Shutterstock
6 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: milk
- Milk may have lost some popularity as a healthy drink, but it contains a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Not to mention that it’s satiating, easily accessible, and cheap.
© Shutterstock
7 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: milk
- Opt for low-fat milk and benefit from its high protein content, as well as a number of vitamins and calcium. If you don’t experience any gastrointestinal issues with dairy, then milk will work great in replenishing your body after exercise.
© Shutterstock
8 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: chocolate milk
- Milk is a great source of protein, but chocolate contains an even better ratio of carbs to protein. While this might not be relevant to those who engage in sporadic recreational sports activities, it may benefit people who work out regularly.
© Shutterstock
9 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: chocolate milk
- A 2009 study, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, found that chocolate milk was superior to carbohydrate supplements when it came to recovery.
© Shutterstock
10 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: coconut water
- A certain level of dehydration is fairly common at the end of a workout. This, of course, varies, depending on the sport, temperature, duration, etc. Either way, electrolytes lost through sweat must be replenished, and coconut water might just be the right drink to do it.
© Shutterstock
11 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: coconut water
- Unlike sports drinks, coconut water doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, but it will equally provide your body with much-needed chloride, sodium, and potassium. This makes unsweetened coconut water a great option to rehydrate post exercise.
© Shutterstock
12 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: tart cherry juice
- Exercise causes inflammation. Consuming high quantities of antioxidants post workout might not be optimal, as it might hinder the body’s adaptation response to the stress. But in the right, small quantities, it can help reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress. Tart cherry juice might just be the right tool for the job.
© Shutterstock
13 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: tart cherry juice
- Tart cherry juice is packed with antioxidants. More specifically, phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and flavonols, among others. Consuming it may reduce muscle damage, especially after very taxing workouts.
© Shutterstock
14 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: cranberry juice
- Cranberries contain rich plant compounds known as proanthocyanidins (a class of polyphenols). These are often associated with the prevention of UTIs, but may also have a positive impact on blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall heart health.
© Shutterstock
15 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: cranberry juice
- Polyphenols are antioxidants, so, in addition to the general health benefits, they may also aid recovery post workout.
© Shutterstock
16 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: iced tea
- Iced tea is not only refreshing, but the catechins and tannins have an antioxidant effect that can help reduce free radical damage.
© Shutterstock
17 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: iced tea
- Iced tea may also stimulate osteoblast activity (bone forming), which means that it’s also good for your bone health.
© Shutterstock
18 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: kombucha
- Exercise is a stressor, and one of its effects can be a microbial imbalance. As such, a drink that provides probiotic support may be helpful for some people. Kombucha is one of those drinks.
© Shutterstock
19 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: kombucha
- This fermented drink is made from water, tea, sugar, yeast, and bacteria, providing probiotic benefits as well as hydrating you. It’s worth noting that kombucha is carbonated, which some people might not like.
© Shutterstock
20 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: protein shake
- A protein shake has become many people’s go-to drink. Whey protein, in particular, has a fast absorption rate, when compared to slow-digesting proteins such as casein. Both, however, can be beneficial.
© Shutterstock
21 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: protein shake
- You may also opt for adding a source of carbohydrates in the shake to replenish glycogen levels. However you chose to do it, a protein shake (regardless of the type of protein) is a sure bet.
© Shutterstock
22 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: electrolyte sports drinks
- Vigorous exercise can easily deplete our bodies, and these drinks work great in the presence of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
© Shutterstock
23 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: electrolyte sports drinks
- These should, however, be reserved for strenuous, long (over an hour) endurance sessions. These drinks have a fairly high sugar content too, so unless glycogen reserves get depleted and mild dehydration occurs, consuming them might not be that beneficial.
© Shutterstock
24 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: vegetable juice
- Veggies are not just good for your overall health. They can also work wonders for post-workout recovery. Many of these have high nitrate content and are packed with carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
© Shutterstock
25 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: vegetable juice
- You can either make a smoothie yourself, or buy ready-made vegetable juice. Give them a try!
© Shutterstock
26 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: orange juice
- Good ol’ OJ also has a place in post-workout nutrition. Rich in vitamin C and carbohydrates, it will help you recover after exercise.
© Shutterstock
27 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: orange juice
- A 2019 study found that “a single serving of 100% OJ provides a palatable, thirst quenching option that will not induce GI distress.”
© Shutterstock
28 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: beer
- Yes, you read that correctly. It turns out beer can be an option when it comes to post-workout drinks, according to a 2021 systematic review in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism.
© Shutterstock
29 / 31 Fotos
Post workout: beer
- Alcohol will hinder recovery and make dehydration worse, but light beer, under 4% ABV (alcohol by volume), in moderation, may help replenish glycogen levels and help balance fluids. After all, if you remove the alcohol, beer is a fermented drink made of water, hops, and malted cereals. Sources: (Health Digest) (BarBend) (StyleCraze) (International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism) (Journal of Nutrition and Health Sciences) (International Society of Sports Nutrition) See also: Facts about alcohol that will shock you
© Shutterstock
30 / 31 Fotos
The best pre- and post-workout drinks
Here's how to improve performance and recover faster
© Shutterstock
Pre- and post-workout nutrition plays a crucial role in how our bodies respond to exercise. Some fluids, when consumed pre-workout, may reduce fatigue, increase energy levels, and improve performance. When it comes to post-workout nutrition, it's all about recovery. We want to replenish glycogen stores, rehydrate, and ensure our bodies have all the necessary ingredients to recover. At this stage, electrolytes, protein, and carbohydrates become key.
In this gallery, you'll find a number of drinks you can try, both pre- and post-workout. Click on and pick your favorite!
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
![Can red meat cause type 2 diabetes?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d9c1da976cb.jpg)
![The true dangers of West Nile virus](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d99bcbae9d8.jpg)
![Is tennis the world's healthiest sport?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d8347d3b5a8.jpg)
![Does sleeping in during the weekend lower your health risks?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d5876a2092a.jpg)
![Ozempic diet? What you should (and shouldn't) eat on GLP-1 medication](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d85a717d263.jpg)
![Everything you need to know about multiple sclerosis](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d84c35eca80.jpg)
![Easy daily habits for a faster metabolism](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d8470494ed7.jpg)
![Can you reverse type 2 diabetes?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d8460d476cc.jpg)
![Eat these foods if you want to lower your blood pressure](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d83f5b288d9.jpg)
![These are the worst things you could do for your eyes](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d83dab62128.jpg)
![The warning signs of young onset dementia](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d82ede64f52.jpg)
![The ways holding in a sneeze can damage your body](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d8284b04272.jpg)
![Shortness of breath: anxiety, or something more sinister?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d8359d9aa00.jpg)
![Do women go through midlife crises?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d1bfab43d6b.jpg)
![Common overlooked signs of depression](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_668fd41f59792.jpg)
![Scary secrets your surgeon definitely won’t tell you](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6683dd12553bf.jpg)
![These cancers are on the rise in younger generations](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d048e3bf50d.jpg)
![Could eating meat give you a UTI?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d09b6cbecf0.jpg)
![Hypochlorhydria: when your stomach can’t break down food](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66d041bcb43a2.jpg)
![Triple E: Why is eastern equine encephalitis potentially so deadly?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66cf3d75c3f5a.jpg)
!["Sloth fever": How dangerous is the Oropouche virus?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6669b3cdd53ba.jpg)
![What happens to your body if you only eat fruit?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66c857f4693d3.jpg)
![The risks of developing metabolic syndrome](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66c852c290ac6.jpg)
![Sensitive skin: causes, care, and when to seek help](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66c376117d4a4.jpg)
![Times the WHO declared a public health emergency](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66c32810ceeb6.jpg)
![The six types of depression, according to science](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66ba2976bc8df.jpg)
![Makhana: The superfood taking over fields in northern India](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66bf7c5f37817.jpg)
![The aggressive brain cancer that kills in record time](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66ab8e429e16a.jpg)
![The oldest known diseases in the world](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66bb8ad5ca1dc.jpg)
![If you have these symptoms, you could be allergic to the sun](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66bf256eefff6.jpg)
![Nighttime fitness: is working out in the evening a good idea?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b6468038992.jpg)
![Everyday places that are incredibly dirty, according to science](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b6390c0ec04.jpg)
![The incredible benefits of exercising with friends](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b630c4decc6.jpg)
![Everything you need to know about melasma](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b1ed1dd50b1.jpg)
![Step into slim: your guide to walking for weight loss](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b0c4e0e4927.jpg)
![What is an existential crisis, and how can you overcome it?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66b3714413ee9.jpg)
MOST READ
- Last Hour
- Last Day
- Last Week
-
1
CELEBRITY Relationships
-
2
LIFESTYLE Wealth
-
3
HEALTH Bad habit
-
4
LIFESTYLE History
-
5
FOOD Food storage
-
6
LIFESTYLE Secondhand
-
7
LIFESTYLE Secondhand
-
8
HEALTH Risks
-
9
-
10
LIFESTYLE Politics
Why is the far-right gaining popularity among young people in Europe?