Why Water and Electrolytes are important for exercise?

Water and electrolytes are important for exercise performance as they maintain blood volume and osmolality, thermoregulation to prevent danger of overheating and for shock absorbing and lubricating properties. Ingestion of water and electrolytes often improve performance or prevent fatigue. The level of water intake should be adjusted according to the climatic conditions. Hyper hydration during exercise in heat has  been found to improve performance and delay adverse effects of dehydration;  however, its effects are detrimental if only water without electrolytes is consumed  for ultra marathon events.

Electrolyte repletion is needed when high rates of sweating occur. This increases dietary need of sodium, potassium and chloride. Small amounts of table salt may be added to meals which will prevent losses of sodium chloride which are detrimental to performance. Excessive use of salt tablets or salt (>lo g/d) is to be discouraged to prevent potassium excretion and loss.

Potassium supplement helps prevent muscle cramps and heat stroke. However, high potassium intake is known to be harmful for health. Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in potassium and their consumption is to be encouraged before resorting to potassium supplements. Thus, water is an important and essential ergogenic aid, however, hyper hydration works only in certain cases of excessive heat otherwise it hampers performance.  n cases of heavy losses of electrolytes through sweat, sodium, potassium and  chloride replenishment is needed.