Is Your Workout Water Weakening You

During workouts, most people will simply grab a water bottle, and that's usually the end of the thought process. However, hydration both in terms of quality and timing can affect not only the strength and endurance but also the overall workout comfort. If the water that you drink is not providing the necessary support to your body, then your performance level can be declining even if your training is consistent.

How Water Quality Shapes Performance

Along with fluid, your body also loses some minerals such as sodium and potassium during exercise. If you are refilling the fluid loss with water only then the mineral content in your bloodstream can change. A disruption in minerals can lead to such symptoms as muscle cramps, dizziness or a sudden energy drop.

Besides that, water is essential in heat regulation as well. Through sweating, the body expels heat, however, a prerequisite for that mechanism to work is setting water balance. Once water levels drop, the cooling effect becomes less potent and the body overheats faster. 

Common Hydration Mistakes

There is a typical habit of over-consuming water right after exercise among many people, which can lead to discomfort and recovery delay. Some may also neglect taking electrolytes during long and heavy workouts, thus depriving muscles of minerals necessary for their normal function, even though they think they are doing proper hydration. Another mistake that people commonly make is waiting to hydrate until they are feeling thirsty. The sensation of thirst normally occurs when the body is already in need of water.

How to Hydrate More Effectively

A moderate volume of water should be consumed before the session and small continuous sips during the training. If the workout is long or intense, consuming an electrolyte drink would be a good idea for the mineral level to remain balanced. Be aware and listen to your body in case it signals with muscle cramps, sudden fatigue or dizziness - these are signs of poor hydration. Use the feedback from your body during and after training in order to evaluate and then plan your future workouts.

Conclusion

Fluid intake that is well balanced will not only facilitate the continuation of a workout but also will provide consistency in performance over a period of time. Proper hydration enables strength, focus and recovery.

Yewhick has a range of convenient water testing tools that lend clarity to the content of your water. By using their products, you can foster excellent daily hydration habits.