BeFIT Resources

Staying Hydrated When Exercising

Do you know how much the average person sweats during one hour of vigorous exercise? The answer is one quart! As you can see, exercise saps a lot of water from our bodies. It is important to start paying attention to your fluid intake 2-3 hours before you are going to exercise. Drink 2-3 cups of water during that time, and then drink another cup immediately before you start exercising.

Without this extra water, your muscles will become dehydrated. Muscle movement depends on how hydrated you are, so if they are even slightly dehydrated, they will not work as well. As a result, your workout will not be as productive as you would like.

Once you start exercising, keep drinking water frequently. A good rule of thumb is to drink one cup of water every 15-20 minutes. Keep a water bottle with you during your exercise or take breaks to head to the water cooler. Do what it takes you keep yourself hydrated.

Even when you are done exercising, you will need to keep replenishing your fluid levels. It’s recommended that you drink another 2-3 cups of water within two hours after you have finished exercising. Then drink water regularly afterwards.

Please, do your body a favor and replenish that quart of fluids your body is losing while you work out. Trust me, you and your muscles will appreciate it later.