Water is something we all need to survive. The human body is largely made of water (2/3), a human cannot live more than a few days without it and there is no replacement for water. Having read the first two sentences, you’ve probably realized that staying hydrated really needs to be a priority. It doesn’t matter whether you are working out regularly, aiming at significant weight loss or muscle building, a glass of water every now and then is something you mustn’t skip. Why? Because hydration is the key to success on every type of fitness journey. You can eat clean all you want, you can do hundreds of exercises (you can try but without water, you’ll fail), but if there is not enough water in your system on a daily basis, the results won’t be there (especially when it comes to weight loss) and you could end up with serious health issues. That’s why it would be useful for you to read just how important water is to a healthy weight loss and see all the important aspects of hydration in general.
Hydration & physical abilities
Drinking enough water directly affects the ability to perform physical activities. This is most likely the most important aspect of hydration. It affects the physical ability to perform which in return has an impact on calorie burn. Of course, it is general knowledge that one should drink water during the workout. However, do you know why? Drinking water and staying hydrated during hard toil is important because lean muscles in our bodies are made up of 80% (give or take) water and thus those muscles need ample amounts of water to function correctly. Fail to drink enough and you face dehydration. When that happens, the muscle tissue starts losing water and the muscle itself has difficulties to contract effectively. As a result, that reduces both the strength and the endurance. According to various studies, as little as 1% drop from the optimal hydration can reduce the physical ability by up to 5%. That also reduces the calorie burn and makes you feel weak and lethargic. Obviously, if you feel weak, you cannot follow any kind of workout regimen.
Firm link between water and weight loss
There was a study conducted at the University of Washington that examined hydration and weight loss. To be more precise, it dealt with the effects of water intake in relation to weight loss. Apparently, drinking one 8-oz. glass of water eliminated midnight hunger pangs in 98% of the subjects. You know how you sometimes crave snacks and food later in the day? Well, that actually harms your weight loss progress. Snacking late in the day is not only bad for your weight loss progress, but it’s also awful for your health and metabolic function. Then there is water’s role in your workout experience. It has been scientifically proven that water can cause a spike in energy levels that could allow you to push harder and endure more during your workouts. A study published in 2003 by ‘The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism’ examined the thermogenic effect of water. Michael Boschmann led the research and the results stated that consuming 16 oz. of water caused a 30% increase in metabolism which was mostly attributable to the body warming the water to body temperature. You now see how important (and beneficial) a big water bottle can be, both at home and in the gym. Make it a habit to always carry water with you because that’s the easiest path towards the optimal hydration level.
You don’t like to drink water?
Even though it’s not common, there are cases where folks simply don’t like the taste of water. Actually, they probably mind the lack of taste. If that’s an issue for you too, spice it up! Do not use artificial sweeteners or anything like that. Especially don’t replace water with those sugary juices and mainstream drinks that guarantee no thirst and swift refreshing sensation. Use natural flavors instead. Squeeze in some lemon drops or lime, add a slice of pomegranate while you sip some water. Your taste buds will be satisfied. Also, carbonated water is an option since it works just like regular water. Just bear in mind that it cannot be sweetened. Keep away from the artificial stuff. You don’t need that in your water.
What’s the right amount?
Many people struggle with figuring out the right amount of water they need on a daily basis. And to be honest, there is no exact amount. Around 8 ounces per day is fine but it all comes down to your build and weight. If you are a stocky, bulked person, you may need more. If you work out intensely, you have to increase it at least by 20%. Bear in mind that there are some indicators that could help you see whether you are well hydrated or not. For example, if you go to the toilet more than a couple of times a day, you’re fine. If the number of toilet visits records two in total or less, you may have a problem. And that problem goes by the name of dehydration. Also, check your urine. If it’s light (lemonade color), your hydration level is okay. However, if it’s dark, you are most likely dehydrated. Of course, lethargy, dizziness and fatigue also serve as telltale signs of dehydration. Sound the alarm if you experience the mentioned symptoms and drink some water!
Conclusion
The right workout regimen, clean food, good mindset and consistency at the gym mean nothing if you deprive your body of water. No gym experience can be complete without this liquid. No weight loss progress can be made without water. Bear that in mind. Water is a key factor when it comes to your well-being. Both inside and outside of the gym. Packing a bottle every morning before you head out will help you get through the day. Packing another for your workout will help you have a good and efficient day at the gym.