There’s a bit of a buzz on TikTok right now about honey and salt as a preworkout.

And if we're honest? We’re having some pretty mixed feelings about it.

For one, it is great that seemingly millions of wannabe gym rats and influencers are finding another reason to eat honey on the reg. 

But…it’s also kind of weird to call honey and salt a “preworkout” and claim that it gives you “a crazy natural pump.” 

Truth is, honey is a pretty great source of energy for exercise, better sleep, or even balancing your metabolism. But it’s not a stimulant, like the megadoses of caffeine often found in powdered preworkout mixes. You shouldn’t pound honey if you’re expecting a sudden jolt of energy.

What honey can do for you is provide an easily accessible energy supply during a long weight or cardio session, so you don’t bonk out 20 minutes in. 

Salt, as in straight-up, regular old table salt, is an electrolyte, which helps you absorb water when you’re dehydrated – like after a long (long) bout of exercise. There’s no harm in having some salt before you exercise, but it’s not going to magically make you stronger or faster. 

And, let’s be honest: a spoonful of honey and salt? Really? Not exactly a delightful recipe.

So, here’s an actually delightful recipe for homemade Gatorade/Powerade/sports drink of your choice that you can make at home and sweeten with raw & unfiltered honey. Drink it before, during and after your workout for a delicious & citrusy way to stay energized and hydrated.

Note: this recipe makes a TON. If you just need enough for one workout, divide everything by 4. To make it, just mix everything together while the water is warm to help dissolve the honey, salt and baking soda.

100 Years of 100% U.S. Honey

This recipe is part of our #100waystousehoney series, celebrating 100 years of 100% U.S. honey.

Throughout 2024, you can shop our limited-edition 1924 Golden Age Wildflower honey blend. It's an exclusive, 100% U.S. wildflower honey blend with a mellow, but flowery taste.