CAN YOU DRINK ALCOHOL AFTER EXERCISE?

For many of us, a post-workout drink is a welcome ritual—a way to celebrate a great session, whether it’s at the gym, on the bike, or out on a run. But when it comes to enjoying a drink while staying active, balance is key. Small Beer offers an alternative that aligns with a health-conscious lifestyle. Crafted to fit seamlessly into a balanced, active life, it’s a mindful choice for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds without the excess.

It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol before a workout. Even a small amount can affect coordination and balance, raising the risk of injury. For those looking for a more considered option, Small Beer’s low ABV (up to 2.8%) has a far milder impact than higher-strength beverages, helping you maintain stability and focus. While abstaining is ideal, Small Beer offers a more mindful choice if a pre-exercise drink is part of your routine.

Read more from Healthline on the effects of alcohol on fitness.

Rehydration is essential after exercise, and this is where lower-ABV beers like Small Beer have an edge. Research shows that higher-ABV drinks (over 4%) delay rehydration, but a beer like Small Beer can support your recovery without compromising hydration. Its ABV sits well below the threshold where alcohol hinders recovery, making it a thoughtful option for those seeking balance.

See more about the science from GQ here.

When it comes to muscle repair, alcohol can slow down the body’s natural recovery process by reducing protein synthesis—the body’s way of rebuilding muscle fibres post-workout. Studies highlight that this effect is much more pronounced with high-ABV beverages, meaning lower-alcohol options like Small Beer have a much softer impact. For those focused on fitness goals, Small Beer offers the enjoyment of a post-exercise drink with fewer drawbacks.

Explore more on how alcohol affects recovery in the New York Times.

The timing of your drink matters. Regular exercise helps counterbalance some of alcohol’s long-term effects, but drinking right before a workout can make exercise feel harder. Small Beer, with its low ABV, requires less time to metabolise, giving you a more flexible approach if you choose to enjoy a drink before being active.

Typical beers can be high in calories and carbs, which may counteract fitness efforts. In contrast, Small Beer is crafted to be lower in both, offering a more mindful choice for post-exercise enjoyment. The balance of carbs and low ABV in Small Beer can support rehydration better than spirits or wine, making it a fitting option for those who prioritise recovery and hydration without empty calories.

If you’re the kind of person who makes every moment count, who wants to enjoy life without compromising your health goals, Small Beer is for you. It’s brewed to bring you balance and flavour, offering an authentic choice for those who value both performance and enjoyment. While alcohol and exercise don’t always mix, Small Beer provides a thoughtful way to unwind and recharge, fitting seamlessly into an active lifestyle.