You can give it pre-workout/ competition or after. Also good to use when hauling long distances. It promotes water uptake and replaces minerals lost during exertion.
I would not just give it to give it on a regular basis.
I give 1/2 tube an hour before I run, and the other half after, when it's very hot out.
Not so much in cooler weather.
Good stuff.... helps recovery time, and gets em drinking..