Electrolytes and Fluids: Insights from Precision Hydration

Hydration is very important for endurance performance. However, many athletes find it hard to keep the right balance of fluids and electrolytes. Precision Hydration expert Lexi Kelson, a registered dietitian, shares research-backed strategies on electrolyte intake and sodium preloading. These hydration techniques help athletes perform better and avoid dehydration.

Why Precision Hydration Matters for Endurance Athletes

Hydration is more than just drinking water—electrolytes, particularly sodium, are essential for maintaining muscle function, preventing cramping, and supporting cognitive function. Research shows that proper sodium replenishment can enhance performance, reduce fatigue, and prevent medical complications during endurance events.

The Role of Sodium in Athletic Performance

• Muscle function: Sodium is vital for muscle contraction and nerve signaling.
• Cramp prevention: Low sodium levels contribute to muscle cramps and performance decline.
• Cognition and focus: Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can impair mental clarity.
• Nutrient absorption: Proper sodium levels aid in carbohydrate and fluid absorption, enhancing fueling strategies.

Understanding Sweat Sodium Loss & the Importance of Sweat Testing

Athletes sweat at different rates and lose varying amounts of sodium. Precision Hydration’s sweat testing helps athletes identify their unique individual sweat sodium concentrations and tailor their hydration plans accordingly.

Why Sweat Rate & Sodium Loss Vary

• Genetics: Some people naturally excrete more sodium.
• Training conditions: Hot, humid climates lead to increased sweat loss.
• Intensity of exercise: Higher exertion leads to higher sweat production.
• Dietary habits: Sodium intake affects how much is lost in sweat.

Alex’s Precision Hydration Sweat Test Experience

Alex Larson underwent Precision’s Hydration sweat test. She was shocked to learn that she has a sodium loss of 1,700 mg per liter, well above average. This insight has helped improve her hydration strategy, leading to better training and race performance.

How to Use Precision Hydration to Prevent Cramping & Fatigue

Cramping is one of the most common issues endurance athletes face, and hydration imbalances are often the culprit.

Key Signs of Dehydration & Low Electrolytes:

• Cramping (especially in the later stages of a race)
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Increased heart rate
• GI distress (bloating, nausea, or discomfort)

Strategies to Optimize Hydration and Electrolyte Intake:

• Assess personal sweat rate and sodium loss via Precision Hydration testing.
• Drink electrolyte-rich fluids instead of just plain water.
• Increase sodium intake during long, hot endurance events.
• Time hydration intake throughout training and races to avoid dehydration spikes.

How Much Should You Drink? Rehydration Strategies from Precision Hydration

Replacing fluids lost during exercise is essential, but drinking too little or too much can negatively impact performance.

General Hydration Guidelines:

• Aim to replace 70-80% of sweat losses during exercise.
• For an average sweat rate (~1 liter per hour), consume 700-800 ml per hour.
• Adjust based on climate, altitude, and personal sweat rates.
• Monitor urine color and thirst levels as additional hydration indicators.

For instructions in doing a simple at-home sweat test and calculator, check out this blog post!

Sodium Preloading: A Precision Hydration Strategy for Race Day

A relatively new strategy, sodium preloading helps athletes start a race in an optimal hydration state.

How to Sodium Preload Effectively:

• The night before the race: Consume a high-sodium electrolyte drink (e.g., Precision Hydration 1500).
• Morning of the race: Drink another high-sodium solution about 60 minutes before start time.
• Pair with carb-loading for additional performance benefits.

The Bike is the Buffet: How to Stay Hydrated in Long Races

Cyclists and triathletes have a unique advantage when it comes to hydration—they can carry bottles on their bikes.

Hydration Tips for Cyclists:

• For triathletes, I usually recommend 3-4 bottle cages for longer races. And using a hydration pack for gravel or mountain biking.
• Mix electrolyte drinks with carbohydrate sources.
• Practice race hydration strategies in training.

Hydration Tips for Runners:

• Use a hydration vest or handheld bottle.
• Plan routes around water refill stations.
• Train with hydration strategies before race day to avoid stomach discomfort.

Quick Hydration Tips for Endurance Athletes

• Get Precision Hydration’s sweat test to personalize your plan.
• Replace 70-80% of sweat losses during long workouts.
• Use sodium preloading before races for an extra hydration boost.
• Monitor signs of dehydration and adjust accordingly.
• Use electrolyte drinks over plain water for optimal absorption.

Final Thoughts & Where to Learn More About Precision Hydration

Optimizing your hydration plan is key to endurance success. Precision Hydration’s expert strategies help endurance athletes avoid cramping, dehydration, and poor performance.

Research Studies cited in the podcast:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150304075220.htm
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7965369/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314420338_The_role_of_sodium_in_the_body
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4966593/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2231307/