Water is a necessary element for the body to function properly.
We need it for energy production, the transport of nutrients,
oxygen, and by-products to and from cells, and as a joint
lubricant. Without an adequate amount of water during intense
exercise, your body can have a difficult time regulating its core
temperature , and as a a result heat exhaustion or heat stroke can
occur. This is why it is imperative that you stay hydrated
while exercising. Avoiding dehydration in the cold, winter
months is just as important.
How do we lose water in the first place? On a
daily basis, the body loses water through normal bodily functions
such as sweating (350-700mL), breathing (100-200mL), and urination
(1000-2000mL). As you exercise, the rate at which you sweat
increases and has a dramatic effect on how rapidly the body can be
depleted of water.
Depending on the rate your body is sweating, it is actually
possible to lose up to 12 oz. of fluid every 20 minutes of
running!!
Factors Affecting Sweat
Rates:
- environmental temperature and humidity
- type of clothing worn
- intensity of exercise
- fitness level
- acclimation of athlete to the environment