Hydrate before not after

After years of supplements and protein shakes companies are now trying to sell athletes hydration drinks for post workout or after a game.  While hydrating after a practice or game is important it is more important to hydrate before the practice or game(s).

First, the human body is made up of about 75-80% water.  Water controls body temperature and blood flow.  Second, water also is responsible for muscular contraction.  The cells in our muscles need water for each contraction so that we can run or jump.  Plus, without enough water an athlete's endurance level will also be diminished.

Therein lies the problem itself, athletes just don't drink enough water.  Well no one does really!  Some will say to figure out how much water you should drink everyday just take half your body weight and that should give you the answer.  I say start with 3 quarts, 96 oz, and work forward or backward from there.

I get asked this question a lot, "what about Gatorade?"  Gatorade or any sport drink should be used after 2 hours of exercise and sweating.  In extreme heat, humidity or combination of both then a sport drink can be used earlier such as 60 or 90 minutes.

Staying hydrated is important for another reason as well.  Our brains rely heavily on water.  Cognitive function is diminished when we are dehydrated.  So not only is their athletic performance lessened their ability to perform tasks and skills is also.

Water water water, just when you think you've had enough you need to drink some more.  After all, every part of your body is depending on it and so is your performance.