Quench Your Thirst, Fuel Your Workout: How Much Water Do You Really Need?
by Cascade Ice on May 19, 2025
Hitting the gym and pushing your limits feels fantastic, but are you giving your body the hydration it needs to perform at its best? Water is your workout’s unsung hero, playing a vital role in everything from energy levels to temperature regulation. So, how much should you be guzzling?
The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your individual water needs during exercise depend on several factors, including the intensity and duration of your workout, how much you sweat, and even the weather. However, a good starting point is to follow these general guidelines:
- Before your workout, aim to drink about 17-20 ounces of water 2-3 hours before you start exercising. This gives your body time to absorb the fluids.
- During your workout, sip about 7-10 ounces of water every 10-20 minutes. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty – that’s a sign you’re already starting to get dehydrated.
- After your workout, replenish the fluids you’ve lost. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 20 ounces of water for every pound of sweat you lose. You can get a rough estimate by weighing yourself before and after your workout.
- Staying hydrated doesn’t mean you have to stick to plain water. Feel free to jazz things up with:
- Fruit-infused water: Adding slices of lemon, cucumber, berries, or other fruits can make your water more appealing and add a hint of flavor without added sugars.
- Sparkling water: If you enjoy a bit of fizz, unsweetened sparkling water is a great way to stay hydrated. Cascade Ice Sparkling Water comes in many flavor varieties!
- Ultimately, the best way to ensure you’re drinking enough is to pay attention to your body’s signals. Thirst is an obvious indicator but also be aware of other signs of dehydration like fatigue, dizziness, and headache.
Staying properly hydrated will not only help you power through your workouts but also aid in recovery and overall well-being. So, grab that water bottle and make hydration a key part of your fitness routine!
How do you make sure to stay hydrated when working out? Let us know in the comments below or share a photo! Remember to “like” and “follow” us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
