Hydrating Before, During & After Exercise: How to Ramp Up Your Hydration During Summer Workouts by Susan Bowerman, M.S., R.D., CSSD, CSOWM, FAND

Nutrition
2 years ago

Hydrating Before, During & After Exercise: How to Ramp Up Your Hydration During Summer Workouts

We are well into summer, and whether you’re already an active person or just getting started on a new fitness journey, remembering to hydrate is more important to than ever during the hot summer months. Here are three tips to staying hydrated while also staying active:

  • Before exercise: Start your workout already well-hydrated. Drink fluids freely for 24 hours prior, then have 2 to 3 cups of fluid two to three hours before your activity. Then, about 30 minutes before starting out, have at least 5 to 10 ounces of additional water  or up to 20 ounces if exercise will be especially strenuous or if it is unusually hot or humid.
  • During exercise: Fluid losses may be as much as 1 to 2 liters per hour. Aim to replace them. You may not be able to replace all your losses, but most athletes can manage about 0.5 to 1 liter per hour, which is best done by drinking every 10 to 20 minutes. Sports drinks that also contain salts (sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium) as well as some carbohydrates will help maintain blood sugar and keep body salts in balance.
  • After exercise: The goal is to replace what you’ve lost from sweating. For every pound of water weight lost, 2 to 3 cups of fluid should be taken in. While plain water quenches thirst, sports drinks that also contain salts and carbohydrates can replenish the body’s carbohydrate stores and facilitate water absorption. Specially designed sports drinks are great for this, particularly when coupled with a balanced post-workout snack or meal.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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Elisa Schmitz
Hydration is key. Thank you for the helpful insights, Susan Bowerman !
Tribe
I carry my Camelback around with me all day.
Cassiday
Yes to all the water all the time 🧊

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