Abs Diet: Drinking Water  

You know that water is good for more than plants and spring break T-shirts. It's also imperative you get some during your workout.

 

Drinking

Start drinking water at least 15 minutes before starting. Drink 8 ounces for every 20 minutes of exercise.

 

Sweat Rate

Weigh yourself before and after a workout and subtract the weight of any water you drank while exercising. If the before-and-after difference is . . .

2 percent of your body weight, your athletic performance suffered.

3 to 4 percent of your body weight, there are potential health risks, including elevated heart rate and body temperature.

 

Refueling

For every pound of body weight you've lost during your workout, drink 16 ounces of water. Then remember that guideline for your next workout. So if you're 2 pounds lighter after an hour-long run, drink 32 ounces more before or during your next run.

 

The Toilet Test

If your urine looks more like iced tea than lemonade, you're dehydrated. The closer to clear, the better.

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