What is the difference between an energy drink and a long distance drink?
In the world of sports, there are a multitude of drinks designed to improve performance and recovery. Between energy drinks and long-distance drinks, it's sometimes difficult to differentiate. One is ideal for an immediate boost, while the other provides a more gradual and lasting boost. So, which one should you choose depending on your workout? Let's break it down.
Energy Drink vs. Long-Distance Drink: A Question of Duration of Action
It's a common question: What's the difference between an energy drink and a long drink? So, chances are you've already asked yourself: Should I have an energy drink or a long drink?
The main criterion that distinguishes these two types of drinks is their effect on the body and their duration of action. So, is it a sports drink or a long-distance drink?
Energy drinks: a quick, but short-lived boost
An energy drink is designed to provide an immediate boost. It typically contains:
• Fast carbohydrates (glucose, sucrose) for instant energy.
• Sometimes caffeine and stimulants for an exciting effect, at Blackbelt we prefer to offer them to you in the form of capsules before the race as an energy booster and separately for those who wish.
• Electrolytes, but often in limited quantities.
Its action is rapid, but it is not sufficient for prolonged exercise. It is ideal for short and intense exercise (less than 1 hour 30 minutes), but beyond that, it can cause sudden changes in blood sugar and fatigue.
💡 Beware of caffeine-containing energy drinks: while they can be useful at the end of a race, they also have an exciting effect that isn't always suitable for runners looking for stable, long-lasting performance. You need the perfect dosage! Our booster capsules don't just contain caffeine to help with that! You'll also find taurine, guarana, and vitamin C.
In most cases, under 1.5 hours, an electrolyte drink will be sufficient.
The long-distance drink: gradual and lasting energy
Unlike the energy drink, the long-distance drink is designed for prolonged efforts. It contains:
• A mix of fast and slow carbohydrates for a stable energy supply.
• Essential electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium) to prevent dehydration.
• Sometimes BCAAs or minerals to support muscular endurance. And in some cases it’s essential!
It is suitable from 1.5 hours of exercise, where a simple energy drink would no longer be enough to maintain performance.
When to choose an energy drink and when to opt for a long-distance drink?
For a short and intense effort (< 1h30)
• An energy drink can be helpful, but in most cases a simple electrolyte drink is sufficient.
• If the effort is explosive (sprint, HIIT, fast running), an energy drink can provide a little boost.
For prolonged effort (> 1h30)
• A long-distance drink is essential to avoid energy drops.
• It provides a constant supply of energy and minerals, thus limiting fatigue and cramps.
For an ultra or a race lasting several hours
• A long-distance drink should be preferred, as it maintains water and energy balance.
• An energy drink can be used as a supplement, particularly at the end of the race for a boost of motivation.
BlackBelt Excellence for Endurance and Performance
At BlackBelt, we have developed a range of exceptional drinks, designed to meet the needs of demanding athletes.
An energy and long distance drink designed to be the best
• An optimal formula, with a perfect balance between carbohydrates, electrolytes and essential nutrients, including BCAAs.
• No blood sugar spike, for constant and lasting energy.
• Optimized hydration to avoid dehydration and cramps.
• A quick and effective supply for times when a boost is needed.
• Free from excessive caffeine, to avoid unwanted excitement during the race.
• Perfect as a complement to an electrolyte drink during an ultra or at the end of a race or even in extreme heat to compensate for losses through sweat.
Conclusion: this is the difference between an energy drink and a long-distance drink.
The difference between energy drinks and long-distance drinks lies in their duration of action:
• The energy drink provides a quick boost, but is not sufficient for the long term.
• The long-distance drink is ideal from 1.5 hours of exercise, providing stable and lasting energy.
• In most cases, a simple electrolyte drink is sufficient for short efforts.
