Hydration
Begin exercise well hydrated by drinking fluids during the day and within the hour before the exercise session. Replace sweat losses by drinking fluids regularly during exercise.
- For short duration (<60 minutes), low to moderate intensity activity, water is a good choice to drink before, during, and after exercise.
- Sport drinks (6-8% carbohydrate) are good options for moderate to high intensity activity lasting longer than 60 minutes, especially when the goal includes replacing carbohydrate and electrolytes.
- For those who experience high sodium losses during exercise, eat salty foods in a pre-exercise meal or add salt to sports drinks consumed during exercise.
- Rehydrate following exercise by drinking enough fluid (water or sports drinks) to replace fluid lost during exercise. Replace fluid and sodium losses with watery foods that contain salt (soup, vegetable juice). Replace fluid and potassium losses by consuming fruits and vegetables.