Sports drinks, ranked from best to worst

This is such an exciting time of year, with so many people out there working out with determined expressions. Hydration is an important part of any workout, but it can be baffling to navigate all the choices. And making the wrong choice can undo all the good work you just did.

What do you need after a workout? Water and sodium, to replace what you lost to sweat. Also some electrolytes like potassium and calcium. Depending on your fitness goals, you probably want to add protein (if you're building muscle) and/or carbs (if you're more interested in building muscle than burning fat).

Water: A+
You can't go wrong with water. It's zero calories, and no artificial colorings, sweeteners, or preservatives. If it's too bland for you, add cucumber or lemon slices. For an added post-workout boost have a snack like peanut butter and a banana and you're golden.

Nuun tablets: A-
Drop these fizzy tablets into your water and they add flavor, plus a boost of electrolytes, without any artificial sweetener. Each tablet is only six calories. They are magic, especially for those who want water to taste more interesting. Only down side is the cost.

Coconut water: B+
It's a little sweet, but doesn't have added sweetener. Contains electrolytes and stuff, but has no added chemicals. Sample a lot of brands to find one you like (I like Vita Coco).

Powerade Zero: B-
Powerade is the only sports drink that comes in a zero-calorie version. On the down side, it's filled with all kinds of weird chemicals.

Reduced-sugar sports drinks: C+
Gatorade comes in a reduced-calorie version. It's like the worst of both worlds: it has artificial sweetener AND HFCS. Okay for those who want a little bit of carbs post-workout, and better than the full-sugar version.

Fully-sweetened sports drinks: F
Don't be fooled by the hype: Powerade, Gatorade and other sports drinks are just non-carbonated soda with extra salt added. Terrible!

Image courtesy Flickr/Lee Brimelow