Athletes Need Fluids!

Health Tips from John Muir Health

Encourage all athletes to drink appropriate fluids when thirsty. Fortunately the days of withholding water during practice to make players tougher are gone. Not only was this practice life threatening, as evidenced by several recent deaths of high profile professional and college athletes, it impedes athletic performance. Studies indicate that being dehydrated by just 5-10% is enough to significantly decrease on field performance. Water and natural juices or sports drinks (diluted to decrease sugar concentration), should be encouraged. Carbonated sodas, especially those that contain caffeine, should be discouraged because they contribute to dehydration. During practice, athletes should be free to drink whenever they are thirsty. Players should not over drink! Too much water can also be dangerous. Keeping players hydrated does not just occur during practices, but must be encouraged in the days leading up to practices or games.