Should you drink water while working out? The answer is yes. Staying hydrated is essential in general, and that includes while you are working out. Contrary to what some myths claim, drinking water can optimize your performance. However, go easy on the hydration. About 7 to 10 ounces every 15 minutes suffices for most people.

Here’s Why You Should Drink Water While Working Out

“Should I drink water during a workout?” is a question many people ask their personal trainers or doctors. That’s because a lot of misunderstanding swirls around the benefits of consuming water during physical activities. Water keeps you hydrated and replaces fluids you lose while working out. It regulates your body temperature and keeps your body functioning properly.

There is a misconception that sports drinks are better than water as part of a fitness routine. Sports drinks can be fine, especially since water is their main ingredient. However, they do often have calories, sugars, and carbohydrates as well.

The carbs can help keep your body's energy up over sustained periods of time, which is something water alone might not give you. If you're exercising strenuously for two to three hours at a time without rest, a sports drink might be better for you than water by itself. Talk to your doctor for advice specific to your situation.

Water Does Not Cause You To Gain Weight

One myth giving rise to the question of whether or not you should drink water while working out claims that water during workouts leads to weight gain. You may retain some water in your body after a workout, but it disappears within a day. The health benefits are well worth the risk of weighing an ounce more than usual for a short time.

Water Does Not Cost You Energy

Water hydrates you and keeps you energized. If you're dehydrated, you are likely to have less energy and headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and other symptoms. Dehydration can be dangerous and even lead to injuries. Drink water to stay hydrated and alert.

Water Does Not Cause Bloating

Water shouldn't cause you to bloat unless you drink too quickly or drink too much at one time. To avoid this outcome, take a swallow of water on occasion rather than all at once.

How Do You Know You’re Drinking Too Much Water?

It’s important to drink water during exercise, but drinking too much is possible. Overhydration can dilute the sodium in your blood to extremely risky levels and even cause swelling in your brain. Signs of overhydration can include vomiting, muscle cramps, and seizures. It can be fatal.

Drink only when you are thirsty, and take a few sips here and there rather than downing several bottles of water all at once.

Should You Drink Water While Working Out?

Should you drink water while working out? Absolutely. Listen to your body’s cues, and keep yourself hydrated. To track how your body changes as you work out, you can use the ZOZOFIT app to monitor changes over time.

Remember, don't over do it when it comes to drinking water while you're working out!