Water is essential for the body to function efficiently during football. If a significant amount of water is lost as sweat and not replaced, dehydration occurs. Just a 2% decrease in body weight, as a result of sweating, can lead to a drop in performance.
Did you know?
- Sweat losses of up to 3.0 L have been recorded in professional football players during training and fixtures.
- Total sweat loss will be dependant on playing position. The greater the exercise intensity (e.g. the further and harder you run) the larger the sweat losses.
- Dehydration will reduce your work rate during the latter stages of training and fixtures impacting your performance.
- Excessive sweat losses, especially high salt losses, can be a factor in some of the muscle cramps that affect players in training and competition.
To give them a proven edge, Barclays Premier League footballers ensure they're prepared by being fully hydrated. During training and matches they'll continue to take on fluid to avoid dehydration and a reduction in performance.
Want more?
Find out more about the science of hydration on the Sports Science website.