Benefit of Water During Exercise & Calories Burned

Water is essential in any exercise routine.

Water is an essential part of any workout. It increases benefits and decreases health risks. It also slightly increases the amount of calories burned.

History

In the past several decades, the importance of water during workouts has grown immensely. The belief that water consumption could cause side effects has been disproved.

Significance

Water prevents dehydration, which has many side effects including decreased blood volume and blood pressure, increased heart rate and core temperature, and water retention.

Benefits

Consuming the correct amount of water will improve function of endocrine glands, metabolic function and body temperature regulation. Drinking water has been shown to increase the amount of calories burned by up to 25 an hour.

Time Frame

Consume 16 ounces (standard bottle size) of water two hours before exercise, possibly more if training in extreme heat, and 20 to 40 ounces for every hour of exercise.

Expert Insight

Be careful not to chug water during a workout, which can lead to cramping. Sip it and use a container that has a precise measurement.

References

• NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training; Michael A. Clark, Ed., Scott C. Lucett, Ed., Rodney J. Corn, Ed.; 2008
• Nutrition in Exercise and Sport; I. Wolinsky, J.F. Hickson; 1994