BRRRRR!! The temperature is changing, and likely so is your workout routine. Your afternoon run used to make you sweat like a turkey on Thanksgiving, but now you can’t even work up a sweat! Many people seem to think that sweat calorie burn, but this is just not true! Sweat is simply the body’s way of cooling off, so most of it is just water (and electrolytes of course).
Even if you find yourself sweating less, it’s still important to stay hydrated. How can I get dehydrated if I’m not sweating? Simple! Though we can’t see it, our bodies are constantly losing water through our skin. It is called insensible water loss.
Also, when we breathe, we expel tiny water molecules along with carbon dioxide. Naturally, when we exercise and breathe faster, we breathe out more water than we do at rest. So, make sure you drink up!
Men should aim to consume about 4 liters of fluid every day (from food and beverages), while women can aim for 3 liters. In addition, it’s recommended that you drink about 20 ounces of water an hour before exercising, 10 ounces every 10-20 minutes throughout your workout, and at least 8 ounces after you work out. That’s an extra 40 ounces of water, at least!
So if you prefer to workout with fresh air filling your lungs, keep doing it! Just be sure to drink up. Cheers!
This blog was contributed to DABQ by a Nate Gomez, a University of New Mexico Dietetic Intern.