Staying Hydrated while Exercising!

So you know how much an average person sweats during one hour of vigorous exercise? One quart! Exercise saps a lot of water from your body. What can you do to make sure you stay hydrated?

• 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.
• Once you start exercising, keep drinking water frequently. A good rule of thumb is to drink one cup every 15-20 minutes. Keep a water bottle with you. Take breaks to head to the water cooler. Do what it takes to keep yourself hydrated.
• When done exercising, you need to keep replenishing your fluid levels. Its recommended you drink another 2-3 cups within two hours after you have finished. Then drink water regularly afterwards.

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

Do your body a favor and replenish that quart of fluids your body is losing while you work out. Your muscles will thank you later!