Water Can Make You A Better Athlete!

Today I experienced an athlete making a huge mistake.  A 16 year old dirt bike racer took a horrible spill right in front of me on a trail here in Austin.  I was one of several first responders to get to the racer.  I recognized right away that he had symptoms of heat illness which included having red, hot skin but is was dry.  He had was feeling very faint and in his words, “couldn’t focus and felt drained”.  Within minutes the paramedics responded and he was given IV fluids right on the spot and they began treating the cuts from his fall. 
Athletes becoming dehydrated is a common mistake that impacts your ability to perform.  The body needs enough water for:

•    proper digestion of solid foods
•    proper organ function including moving vital nutrients to all the important functions the body needs to perform and restore itself after performance
•    regulate body temperature
•    lubricate joints and helps keep muscle and skin toned
•    proper brain function (brain is 85% water)
•    and much more

In order to truly deliver your best day in and day out, remember these tips:

•    To prepare for a game, match or training session you should be properly hydrated and maintain it at least 24-48 hours before the scheduled time to be properly hydrated (right before the game is not enough)
•    Weigh yourself before your game or workout and then again after.  Make sure you replenish the amount of fluids lost sweating.  If you lost 2 lbs, you will need to consume 2 lbs of fluids (preferably water) within the next 2 hours
•    Do not eat salty or overly spicy foods 24 hours prior to performance
•    Think of water as an important part of preparing for performance just like making sure you have your uniform, sports gear and shoes.

Hydrating will no doubt make you a better athlete!

The future is ours!
Diane Vives