Things You'll Need:
- Water or Gatorade
- Cup or water bottle
-
Step 1
Drink some Gatorade (or a similar drink such as Powerade) or cool water before the start of the game. It is important to get some fluids into the body before beginning any activity.
-
Step 2
Take a drink of the hydrating beverage about every 15 minutes or so. You may need to stop for a sip of the drink more frequently in hot weather. The body sweats out sodium and water frequently during activity, so it is important to keep replacing those lost fluids.
-
Step 3
Drink small amounts each time you stop for hydration. Drinking too much can lead to cramping, the need to go to the bathroom in the middle of game play, or bloating. In rare cases, drinking far too much water or liquids in a short period of time can lead to water intoxication which can be deadly.
-
Step 4
Avoid sodas, alcoholic beverages, energy drinks and any sugary drinks. These types of beverages can cause dehydration due to the sugar content. Alcoholic beverages can cause slowed reaction times and energy drinks can be dangerous due to the potential for increased heart rate and blood pressure. Use only water or a specially designed beverage, such as Gatorade or Powerade, when replenishing lost fluids from sweat and exercise.
