Short, Intense, Sweaty
A CrossFit session is typically 45-60 minutes including warm-up and skill work, with the actual high-intensity "WOD" lasting 5-20 minutes. The intensity is high enough that sweat losses can be significant in a relatively short window - particularly in poorly-ventilated boxes during Australian summer.
Pre-Session
Hydrate steadily through the day before the class. A glass of water with electrolytes 30-60 minutes before class fits well. Don't slam volume right before - you don't want a sloshing stomach during burpees.
During
For most sessions, water at the wall is fine. Electrolytes during a CrossFit session aren't usually necessary - the duration is short enough that mineral losses don't urgently need replacing within the session itself.
Post-Session
This is where products earn their place. After a particularly sweaty WOD, an electrolyte drink during the cool-down replaces what's lost. Tablets (Nuun, Hydralyte), sachets (Dr.Hydrate, Liquid I.V.), or sports drinks (Powerade, Gatorade) all do the basic job. Match format to what you'll actually drink.
Through the Day
A solid baseline of daily hydration matters more than any single product. Daily hydration routines set you up to start the next session topped up.
Frequently Asked
Do I need electrolytes for CrossFit?
Not always - water and food cover most sessions in mild conditions. After hot WODs or back-to-back classes, an electrolyte product helps.
What should I drink before CrossFit?
Steady fluid through the day, a glass 30-60 min before class. Don't slam volume right before burpees.
Are electrolyte drinks better than water for CrossFit?
For ordinary sessions, water is fine. Electrolytes earn their place after hot sessions, multi-class days, or particularly heavy WODs.
