Sports drinks are specialised formulations used by athletes to enhance performance and accelerate recovery. The main component of these drinks is water, but they also contain carbohydrates, electrolytes, proteins and sometimes vitamins. These substances maintain fluid balance, replenish energy stores and prevent dehydration from leading to a decrease in performance. There are three main categories of sports drinks: isotonic, hypotonic and hypertonic, which cater to different needs depending on intensity and duration. Energy drinks are different from sports drinks. They usually contain caffeine, sugar and sometimes other stimulating ingredients. These drinks are consumed to increase mental alertness and provide temporary energy, but do not support recovery after exercise. While proper use of sports drinks can improve exercise performance, excessive consumption can lead to stomach upsets, weight gain or other health problems. This review highlights that sports drinks, when used appropriately, make an important contribution to optimise athletic performance and recovery. Consuming sports drinks at the right time and in the right amount is beneficial for the overall health and success of athletes.