Water is important, we all know it. Our bodies can’t run smoothly without water and our minds would be dull and our skin dull. Things are however different when it comes to hitting the gym.
When you hit your limits, and break a sweat, body fluids are lost through sweating. This dehydration could result in fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, or even headache. That does not sound like something that will give you a nice workout, does it?
Now what becomes of this situation? How much water do you need when you hit the gym? The truth is there’s no right answer for everyone.
It depends on a few factors:
- The Intensity of Your Workout: Just think about it! A gentle yoga class will not make you sweat as much as a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class would do. The more intense your workout, the more fluids you’ll lose.
- The Climate: Are you working out in an extremely hot gym or under the summer sun? You will have to drink more water to balance off the extra sweat loss.
Your Body Weight: Bigger bodies typically perspire more than smaller ones do. So if your physique happens to be bigger than average, then maybe your water intake needs to be adjusted accordingly.
Check out the following hydration game plan that will keep you refreshed and focused throughout your workout sessions:
Pre-Workout Sip: Aim for 450ml to 600ml of water between an hour or two before you do your gym so that your body will be set.
Mid-Exercise Refuel: Take small draughts of water every 15-20 minutes while you are exercising. Don’t finish one bottle at once, instead stay hydrated regularly.
Refuel after Exercise: Both before and after a workout, take your weight. Try to drink 16–24 ounces of liquids for every pound lost via sweating.
Extra Advice: Pay attention to how your body feels! Thirsty? Drink! Feeling woozy or slow? Then drink some more water.
Remember that proper hydration is the means of unlocking all that your gym has to give you; therefore, grab a reusable water bottle, fill it up, and get ready for an intense sweat session in the gym!
