Q: How does dehydration impact my workout? Should I hydrate the day of my workout?
A: Dehydration will negatively impact your workout performance. When strength training fatigue should be a result of momentary muscle failure not dehydration.
Dehydration will negatively impact your strength training performance in the following ways:
- Reduction in blood flow
- Reduction in rate of sweating (heat dissipation)
- Reduction in blood flow, sweating, and heat dissipation leads to an increase in core body temperature
- Premature depletion of muscle fuel
Hydration is important each and every day and not just the day of your workout. Just as regular and healthy eating habits are important, it is critical to have consistent hydration habits to allow your body to perform at optimal levels through out the entire day. To prevent dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in water (ex. fruits and vegetables). Producing clean, clear, and copious urine is a good indication that you’re well hydrated.