32Gi Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink

32Gi Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink

  • Drink mix
  • 18.7 g carbs per serving
  • From 32Gi's label
Buy nowAll 32Gi
The short answer

32Gi Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink has 18.7 g carbs, 139 mg sodium per serving, from R8 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 10/10 (elite value).

Carbs18.7g
Sodium139mg
CaffeineNone
Per servingR8
About it

A bang for buck isotonic drink, formulated in line with the proven 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio. Maximise your carbohydrate uptake and fuel your superior athletic performance.

  • Power & performance driven
  • Thirst quenching
  • Easy on the tummy
  • Delicious tasting
  • Zero banned substances
  • Additives promise

Decision helper the numbers athletes compare

Value score10/10Elite value
Cost score against the Endure average10/10
35 products in the category-1.83σ
Multi-source carbs (glucose + fructose)+1
Electrolytes included (≥50 mg sodium)+0.5
High carb density without GI flag+0.5
Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g-0.5
Value score10/10
About $0.023 a gram of carbs, at R18.50 to the dollar.How we score ›
Price per g carbR0,43Elite value · 10/10Cost vs live Endure average (z-score)70% cheaper than the category average
Price per 100 g carbR43GoodCost to buy 100 g of carbohydrate fuel — easier to compare than per-gram
Carb density93,5%Very denseCarbs as % of serving weight — affects gut load
Sodium per 100 kcal185 mgExcellentElectrolyte adequacy vs 300–600 mg Na/hr target
Caffeine per servingNoneStimulant dose per serving
Servings for 60 g an hour3,2AverageServings/hour to hit the 60 g/hr fuelling target

On the label per serving, 1 scoop (approx. 20g)

Energy75 kcal
Carbs18.7 g
Sugar12.6 g
Protein0 g
Fat0 g
Sodium139 mg
Potassium50 mg
Caffeine0 mg
Carb typeMaltodextrin
Glucose to fructose2:1
Carb sourcesSucrose, maltodextrin

Who it suits and where it falls short

Who it is for

Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink is ideal for athletes engaging in short to medium distance events where quick energy replenishment is crucial. This includes sub-3 hour marathoners looking for a reliable carb source during tempo runs, cyclists participating in criterium races, and triathletes needing a fast-acting energy source during Olympic distance events. The drink's isotonic nature ensures rapid absorption, making it suitable for high-intensity efforts where hydration and energy delivery are paramount.

Best sessions

tempo runs 60-90min, criterium races, Olympic triathlons, half-marathon pace workouts, threshold cycling sessions

Pros
  • Multi-source carbohydrate blend for enhanced absorption.
  • Isotonic formulation aids rapid gastric emptying.
  • Contains essential electrolytes to support hydration.
  • Includes a range of vitamins for added nutritional support.
  • Affordable price point with limited value score.
Cons
  • Requires multiple servings to meet higher carb needs.
  • Limited flavor options may not suit all preferences.
  • High sugar content might not be suitable for all athletes.
  • No caffeine for those seeking an extra performance boost.
Race day

How to use it, by distance

For a 5k, this drink might not be necessary mid-race due to its short duration. However, consuming it 30 minutes before the start can help top off glycogen stores.

The science in short

D
Primary use

Ideal for medium-distance events where rapid energy and hydration are crucial.

Isotonic — Designed to match the body's natural fluid osmolality, promoting quick absorption without causing gastrointestinal distress, ideal for maintaining hydration and energy levels during intense efforts.

Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for athletes seeking quick energy and hydration during medium-distance events. Its multi-source carbohydrate blend ensures efficient absorption, while the isotonic formulation supports rapid gastric emptying. However, the need for multiple servings to meet higher carbohydrate demands and the high sugar content may not suit all athletes. Overall, this product is a solid choice for those prioritizing value and performance in short to medium endurance activities.

Why it works

The 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio facilitates dual-pathway carbohydrate absorption via SGLT1 and GLUT5 transporters. This maximizes the rate of carbohydrate oxidation, enhancing endurance performance. The isotonic nature ensures rapid gastric emptying and efficient fluid absorption, critical during high-intensity efforts.

The trade-off

While effective for medium distances, the need for multiple servings can be cumbersome for longer events. The high sugar content may also pose a risk for athletes sensitive to sugar spikes.

Serving

Each 20g serving provides 18.7g of carbohydrates, making it a cost-effective option for athletes needing sustained energy.

Carb density

0.935g per gram — higher than many competitors, offering efficient energy delivery.

Carb matrix

Multi-source (2 carbs: Maltodextrin, Fructose). Uses both SGLT1 and GLUT5, supporting up to ~90 g/h.

Carb types

Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1); Fructose — fructose pathway (GLUT5)

Electrolytes

Contains 139mg sodium and 50mg potassium per serving, addressing basic electrolyte needs but may require supplementation for heavy sweaters.

Glucose to fructose

2:1 — multi-source blend lifts the absorption ceiling beyond SGLT1's 60 g/h.

Hourly capacity

3 servings/hr = 56.1g carbs, slightly below 60-90g/hr optimal range.

  • Monitor sugar intake if sensitive to high sugar levels.
  • Ensure adequate water intake to maintain isotonic conditions.

Using it in training and racing

Flavour and feel
acidity
moderate — Balanced with citric acid, providing a refreshing tang.
summary
After 90 minutes in the heat, it remains refreshing and easy on the stomach, with a pleasant sweetness.
texture
Dissolves quickly in water, requiring minimal agitation. Easy to handle and mix on the go.
mouthfeel
thin — Easily drinkable with a smooth consistency that doesn't linger.
sweetness
high — Similar to a diluted sports drink, with a noticeable sweet profile.
aftertaste
clean — Leaves a subtle, pleasant aftertaste without any bitterness.
available flavors
Raspberry, Orange
How to train your gut
tips
Start with small doses to assess tolerance., Combine with water to maintain isotonic balance., Monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort., Adjust serving frequency based on workout intensity.
week 1
Consume 1 serving post-workout, twice a week to start adapting your gut.
week 2
Increase to 1 serving during workouts, twice a week to test tolerance.
week 3
Simulate race conditions with 1 serving every 30 minutes during a long run.
week 4
Full rehearsal with target race pace, consuming 1 serving every 45 minutes.
Mixing

Mix 1 scoop with 500ml of water for optimal isotonic balance. Stir or shake until fully dissolved. Use a sports bottle for easy mixing and consumption during workouts. Avoid using less water to prevent hypertonic solutions.

Heat and cold

In hot conditions, the drink maintains its isotonic properties, though it may taste sweeter. In cold conditions, it may thicken slightly but remains drinkable. Avoid freezing to prevent clumping.

Packaging

The packaging features a resealable bag, making it easy to store. However, it requires careful handling to avoid spills. Ideal for use in a gym bag or cycling pouch.

Sustainability

The packaging is not explicitly recyclable, and there is no information on sourcing transparency. Consider the environmental impact of frequent use.

Pairs well with
  • Electrolyte tablets for enhanced hydration during long events.
  • Caffeine gels for a performance boost in the final stages.
  • Protein bars for recovery post-event.
What other athletes say
  • Multi-source carbs enhance absorption via SGLT1 and GLUT5 pathways.
  • Isotonic drinks promote rapid gastric emptying and fluid absorption.
  • 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio supports high carbohydrate oxidation rates.
  • Electrolyte content helps maintain hydration during intense efforts.
In depth

## Who It's For Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink is designed for athletes who engage in medium-distance endurance events. This includes marathon runners, cyclists participating in criterium races, and triathletes competing in Olympic distances. The drink's formulation is particularly beneficial for those who need quick energy replenishment and hydration during high-intensity efforts. Its isotonic nature ensures rapid absorption, making it suitable for athletes who prioritize performance and efficiency.

## Inside the Formulation The drink is formulated with a 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio, utilizing maltodextrin and fructose as primary carbohydrate sources. This ratio is scientifically proven to enhance carbohydrate absorption through dual transport pathways, SGLT1 and GLUT5. The isotonic formulation ensures that the drink matches the body's natural fluid osmolality, promoting rapid gastric emptying and efficient fluid absorption. Additionally, the product contains essential electrolytes, including sodium and potassium, to support hydration and prevent cramping.

## On Course: How to Use It For optimal performance, consume one serving of Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink 30 minutes before your event to top off glycogen stores. During the race, aim to consume a serving every 45 minutes, starting at the 10km mark for marathons. This strategy helps maintain energy levels and hydration throughout the event. Pair the drink with water to ensure isotonic conditions and prevent gastrointestinal distress.

## How It Compares Compared to other sports drinks, Rapid Energy offers a competitive edge with its multi-source carbohydrate blend and isotonic formulation. While some products may offer higher carbohydrate content per serving, Rapid Energy's affordability and efficient absorption make it a valuable choice for athletes seeking performance and value. Its high sugar content may not suit everyone, but it provides a quick energy source for those who can tolerate it.

## Training Your Gut To maximize the benefits of Rapid Energy, incorporate a gut training protocol into your routine. Start with one serving post-workout in week one to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to consuming one serving during workouts in week two. In week three, simulate race conditions by taking one serving every 30 minutes during a long run. Finally, in week four, conduct a full rehearsal at target race pace, consuming one serving every 45 minutes.

## The Verdict Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink is a reliable and cost-effective solution for athletes seeking quick energy and hydration during medium-distance events. Its multi-source carbohydrate blend ensures efficient absorption, while the isotonic formulation supports rapid gastric emptying. The product's high value score and affordability make it an attractive option for those prioritizing performance and cost. However, the need for multiple servings to meet higher carbohydrate demands and the high sugar content may not suit all athletes. Overall, this product is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their performance in short to medium endurance activities.

Sizes and where to buy

SizePricePer servingBuy
Raspberry1 × 25 servingsR199.99R8Buy ›
Orange1 × 25 servingsR199.99R8Buy ›

Questions about Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink

How many carbs are in 32Gi Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink?

18.7 g of carbs per serving (1 scoop (approx. 20g)), with 139 mg sodium, from 32Gi's label.

What does 32Gi Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink cost per serving?

From R8 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 23.4 g of carbs per R10.

How should I dose Rapid Energy for a marathon?

For a marathon, start with one serving 30 minutes before the race to maximize glycogen stores. During the race, aim to consume one serving every 45 minutes, beginning at the 10km mark. This strategy helps maintain energy levels and hydration throughout the event. Pair with water to ensure isotonic conditions and prevent gastrointestinal distress.

How does Rapid Energy compare to its main competitor?

Rapid Energy offers a multi-source carbohydrate blend and isotonic formulation, similar to its main competitors. However, it stands out with its affordability and high value score. While some competitors may offer higher carbohydrate content per serving, Rapid Energy's efficient absorption and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable choice for athletes seeking performance and value.

Is there caffeine in Rapid Energy?

No, Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink does not contain caffeine. It is designed to provide energy through its carbohydrate blend and electrolytes. Athletes seeking a caffeine boost may need to supplement with caffeine gels or other sources during their event.

How should I mix Rapid Energy for best results?

Mix one scoop with 500ml of water for optimal isotonic balance. Stir or shake until fully dissolved. Use a sports bottle for easy mixing and consumption during workouts. Avoid using less water to prevent hypertonic solutions, which can cause gastrointestinal distress.

How does Rapid Energy behave in hot and cold temperatures?

In hot conditions, Rapid Energy maintains its isotonic properties, though it may taste sweeter. In cold conditions, it may thicken slightly but remains drinkable. Avoid freezing the drink to prevent clumping. Always store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality.

How should I train my gut to use Rapid Energy?

Start with one serving post-workout in week one to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to consuming one serving during workouts in week two. In week three, simulate race conditions by taking one serving every 30 minutes during a long run. Finally, in week four, conduct a full rehearsal at target race pace, consuming one serving every 45 minutes.

Is Rapid Energy vegan and allergen-free?

Rapid Energy does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for vegans. However, always check the packaging for any allergen warnings or cross-contamination notices, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

If you experience any gastrointestinal discomfort or other side effects, reduce the serving size and ensure adequate water intake to maintain isotonic conditions. If symptoms persist, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Always test new products during training before race day to ensure tolerance.

Compare with drink mixs close in carbs

ProductCarbsSodiumCaffeinePer servingCarbs per R10ValueCompare
In the app

Racing with Rapid Energy - Isotonic Sports Drink? 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