Is the iPRO Drink Worth It for Casual Runners? Here’s My Verdict
As the years tick by, I’ve found my mindset around the gym and fitness shifting. I used to be all about the bulk.
Looking huge and filling out T-shirts was my single priority. Then, as I hit my late twenties, something dawned on me: I could no longer run like a normal human being.
Those videos of Tommy Fury steaming across the finish line like a freight train? Yeah, that was me (only nowhere near as big… and embarrassingly not as quick).
Realisation number two: hydration had become a complete afterthought. Between my protein powders, creatine blends and cream of rice, there wasn’t much brain space left for proper hydration.
Water just became another bulking tool. So, acknowledging I had to right both these wrongs, I started taking part in my local Parkrun and searching for a better way to sip.
It wasn’t long before the iPRO drink popped up. See, iPRO is Parkrun’s global hydration partner, explaining why you might have spotted a bottle on your Saturday morning trot, too.
Given the answer to my second quandary landed straight in my lap, I thought it would be rude not to write a review for anyone in a similar spot.
So here it is: my honest thoughts on the iPRO drink — and whether or not it helped me on my quest to rediscover my running feet.
What is the iPRO Drink?
The iPRO Drink — or iPRO Hydrate, to give it its proper name — is billed as a convenient bottle of healthy hydration.
It’s iPRO’s low-sugar answer to the big-name brands that have dominated the space for decades now (you know who I’m talking about).
The stripped-back formula features water, carbohydrates sourced from maltodextrin, and stevia for natural sweetness.
Electrolytes and 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C are added for boosted functionality, along with a solid lineup of B vitamins.
Flavours available include Orange & Pineapple, Mango, Citrus Blend and Berry Mix.
How Does the iPRO Drink Perform?
Now, while I admit I’m not a seasoned runner, I’m not a complete novice. Before discovering the weights room, I used to run cross country.
To this day, I still play a lot of football — albeit as a centre back — so while I might look ungainly plodding along, I do know what to keep an eye out for in a hydration drink.
Right out of the blocks, iPRO seemed like the full package after scanning the label.
It’s got electrolytes to replace what’s lost through sweat, quick-access carbs for an instant energy burst (essential for longer runs), and just enough sugar to help get those electrolytes where they need to go.
Few people know that sugar plays an important role in rapid rehydration. Studies show a pinch of the sweet stuff can aid absorption of sodium, glucose and water into the bloodstream.
While other hydration beverages might tip the scale between functionality and sugar overload, the iPRO Drink keeps things balanced with just 3g per 100ml.
How does that translate to performance? I had absolutely no complaints.
Granted, 5k isn’t a mega distance, or one most everyday runners would even think twice about.
I’m still finding my feet again with running, so it’s definitely enough for me to break a sweat and feel challenged.
The iPRO Drink was like my cheerleader, pushing me through all four laps of my local park.
The quick-release carbs are ideal for keeping you topped up during early-morning runs — especially when you sleep through your alarm and have to skip breakfast (guilty).
And once you’re done, there’s safety in the knowledge those electrolytes are getting to work on restoring balance.
As for the vitamins, I guess that’s a benefit you’ll feel over time. Either way, it’s a nice added bonus to have, and one that could well provide extra energy in Parkruns to come.
I’m not going to reveal my time — that still needs some work. But what I will say is the iPRO Drink does exactly what it says on the tin.
The Taste Test
Citrus Blend was my weapon of choice for this Parkrun, and it went down a treat. The flavour was exactly what my dry mouth needed — sweet without being cloying, fruity and fresh.
It might be billed as healthy hydration, but there’s no taste trade-off here. I’m genuinely excited to try the remaining three flavours, which speaks volumes.
Also, shoutout to the bottles. Powdered formulas are great… until clumps and gritty residue show up to the party.
The iPRO Drink is a user-friendly grab-and-go solution for anyone who needs the odd hydration boost before, during or after a run — but doesn’t necessarily start every morning with a sachet of electrolytes.
The Takeaway
My running renaissance is only just getting started, but I already know the iPRO Drink is going to be with me every step of the way.
It’s clean, functional and simple to use — everything you want healthy hydration to be.
If you want to give it a go, there are options. You can either shop directly through iPRO’s site or find it listed on the Parkrun shop.
iPRO Hydrate is also in the fridges of some big-name retailers nationwide, including The Co-op, SPAR and WHSmith.
Visit iPRO online to find your nearest stockist.
SEE ALSO: Everything You Need to Know About the iPRO Student Drink Range
