Compared to using water alone, Gatorade’s carbohydrate formula can help enhance performance and provide explosive power and sprint speed in the closing minutes of an athlete's effort.

 

That is why it is important for players of all sports who are serious about their performance to maintain proper hydration. When you start to make sports drinks a part of your routine, it definitely makes a noticeable difference in how long you are able to perform at your best. Here are some of the benefits of a sports drink…

 

CARBOHYDRATES— You have to have energy if you want to be able to go hard from start to finish...that’s what carbohydrates give you. Since carbohydrate, also called carbs, is what delivers energy to your muscles, low-or no-carb diets are generally not recommended for athletes. Carbs in the form of whole grains, fruits and vegetables are an important part of an athlete’s diet. Without carbohydrate, it’s literally impossible to perform at your peak. Carbs taken in immediately before and during activity help fuel working muscles...and carbs taken in immediately after exercise are critical in replacing energy stores you’ll use to begin your next practice or game.

 

ELECTROLYTES— When you sweat you lose more than just water, electrolytes are in the fluids that your body sweats out. Electrolytes are essential minerals your body needs, such as sodium, potassium and chloride. Gatorade helps you replace those electrolytes you just lost in your sweat.

 

STAYING HYDRATED— Remember, whether it’s before, during or after practice or games, an easy way to check your hydration status is to look at the color of your urine: If it’s dark like apple juice, you need more fluids. If it is light like lemonade, you’re probably well hydrated.

 

Signs of dehydration: muscle cramps, fatigue, headache, thirst, nausea, irritability, dizziness & weakness.

 

The best way to determine how much fluid you need to replace is to weigh yourself before and after exercise. If you lose weight, you’ll need to drink 20 to 24 ounces of fluid for every pound lost to get back to your pre-exercise weight. If you’ve actually gained weight, you’re drinking too much and need to reduce the amount of fluids you’re taking in during activity.

 

Before: 2-3 glasses in 15 minutes before exercise

 

During: 5-8 oz every 15 minutes

 

After: Use the determining factors above and replace all fluids lost (atleast 17 oz)

 

Following guidelines for recovery can give you a tremendous edge over competitors who don’t. So don’t wait until it’s too late. If you drink only when you are thirsty you may already be on your way to becoming dehydrated. Gatorade will help you play longer, harder, safer and better!