On call: Hydration for summer exercise
On call
isoverhydrationUntil the late 1970s, most athletes were advised not to drink before or during exercise. The idea was to avoid bloating and to improve performance. Some coaches may have also believed that withholding fluids would "build character." It didn't work. In fact, dehydration increases the risk of muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke during exercise in warm weather. And even in mild weather, dehydration can leave exercisers grumpy or groggy for hours afterward.
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