Staying hydrated during workouts used to be simple. Drink plenty of water. In recent years, sports drinks have become popular because of there purported ability to replace electrolytes and maintain proper hydration. There is also growing concern over injuries and death caused by rhabdomylasis. Electrolytes are elements needed by the body. As the name implies, they are needed to conduct electrical impulses, such as those needed to make voluntary muscles contract and heart beat. When a person perspires, it is necessary to replace them. This is the basis for the research performed by the Florida Gators football team. Their research was the basis for the product Gatorade. There are, however, considerations for using this and other sports drinks. The original research pointed to a six percent glucose solution for maximum benefit. This means that for every 100 grams of drink, there are six grams of glucose or sugar. The current formulation of Gatorade is a twelve percent solution; twice as much as is necessary. This means that when this product is taken, water must be drawn from other locations in the body to dilute and absorb it. This will cause further dehydration. This is remedied by mixing one part Gatorade with one part water.

Sports drinks are also to be saved for during athletic events. Avoid sports drinks during non-active parts of the day. Many of these drinks contain as much or more sugar than many soft drinks Under normal circumstances, the body should have enough water, glucose and electrolytes to begin activity. At this point, water is sufficient. After prolonged exertion and perspiration, the sports drinks should be used. There is also a consideration for those who are ‘salty sweaters’. These people whose have a higher salt content in there sweat. In cases like this, it may be necessary to take extra salt in the diet. This can come in the form of fruits and vegetables that contain appreciable amount of dietary sodium. Remember, proper hydration can not replace proper diet, rest and training. When all of these are in check, proper hydration can help martial artists through long, grueling workouts and give them the winning edge.

-Sensei Pat

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