Cramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel vs Hydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports Drink

  • 2 products side by side
  • From each brand's label
The short answer

For athletes debating hydration strategies, Cramp Assalt and Hydrate from 32Gi offer distinct solutions. Cramp Assalt is ideal for those prioritising cramp prevention, whereas Hydrate is a zero-calorie option that ensures fluid balance. Both cater to different conditions and athlete preferences.

FigureCramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte GelCramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel32GiHydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports DrinkHydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports Drink32Gi
FormLiquidTablet
Serving10g1 tablet
Price per servingR33.99R10 (best)
Carbs per R102.3 g—
Value score2/10—
Energy31 kcal0 kcal
Carbs7.7 g (best)0 g
Sugar4.8 g0 g
Protein0.1 g0 g
Fat0 g0 g
Sodium184 mg0 mg
CaffeineNoneNone
Carb typeRice Syrupnone
Glucose to fructose—none
Glycaemic index——
Scores out of 100, from each product's write-up
ScoreCramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte GelHydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports Drink
Energy delivery6060
Digestibility7090
Taste7070
Value3085
Convenience8080
Key differences
  1. Cramp Assalt includes carbs; Hydrate does not.
  2. Cramp Assalt has more sodium; Hydrate's sodium content is unspecified.
  3. Hydrate is calorie-free, suitable for lighter activities.
  4. Cramp Assalt targets cramp prevention with specific electrolytes.
Race day

How each one works, by distance

Cramp Assalt - Anti-Cramp & Electrolyte Gel

Not ideal for a 5k due to its focus on cramp prevention rather than quick energy delivery.

Hydrate - Electrolyte Hydration Sports Drink

For a 5k race, 32Gi Hydrate is not necessary unless conditions are extremely hot. Hydration can be managed pre-race with water.

The verdict by situation

Carbs in the drink

Cramp Assalt includes carbohydrates, useful for concurrent energy needs during long sessions, while Hydrate's carb-free formula requires separate energy supplementation.

Electrolytes

Cramp Assalt covers sodium and potassium, giving it an edge in electrolyte completeness. Hydrate lists potassium but is ambiguous about sodium.

Sodium per litre

Cramp Assalt provides a significant sodium boost with 184mg per serving, higher than Hydrate, which lacks explicit sodium content details. This can be crucial for replacing lost sweat.

By sweat rate
heavy sweater
For heavy sweaters, Cramp Assalt offers more electrolytes per serving, aiding in replacing substantial sweat loss. Hydrate may need additional sodium supplementation.
light sweater
Cramp Assalt offers more sodium, benefiting athletes with low sweat rates seeking targeted cramp prevention. Meanwhile, Hydrate's low sodium may not suffice.
moderate sweater
Moderate sweaters can benefit from either, but Cramp Assalt provides a balanced approach with sodium, potassium, and carbs.
In the heat

In hot and humid conditions, Cramp Assalt's higher electrolyte content is better suited for maintaining balance and reducing cramp risk.

Every day

For daily hydration, Hydrate's simplicity and zero-calorie formula make it more practical for maintaining general fluid levels without additional calories.

Final verdict

Cramp Assalt caters to athletes needing extra sodium and light carbs, ideal for cramp-prone and heavy sweaters. Hydrate, on the other hand, suits those requiring a simple, calorie-free hydration aid. Choose based on your electrolyte and energy needs during exercise.

Questions about these products

Which product is better for cramp prevention?

Cramp Assalt, due to its higher sodium content and inclusion of Capsicum Annuum, is more suited for cramp prevention.

Can Hydrate be used in long-duration events?

Hydrate lacks carbohydrates and sufficient sodium, making it less ideal alone; it should be complemented with energy sources.

Is Cramp Assalt suitable for daily hydration?

While beneficial during workouts, Cramp Assalt may provide unnecessary calories for daily use, where plain water or Hydrate could suffice.

What makes Hydrate ideal for weight-conscious athletes?

Hydrate is a zero-calorie solution, making it appealing for athletes wanting to manage caloric intake while maintaining hydration.

In the app

Picked your fuel? Put it in your plan.

Glyco places it on your race course by time, at the rate your gut can take, and tracks what you actually used.

A race plan with fuel placed on the course, in the Glyco app