Drink more fluids during exercise

While exercising, a good amount of fluids should be taken, in order to replenish the water loss. According to athletics, water is far better than 'energy' drinks for keeping you hydrated during exercise. During summer there is maximum need for fluids, henceforth, you'll be well aware of the need to keep your fluid levels topped up with regular drinks. There are a lot of so-called energy drinks around, which seem to promise to help your performance and banish fatigue. The questions arises whether one should use them or not.

Keep it easy and simple, when it comes to re-hydration, says Robert Stelma - a training expert at the Geisinger-Wyoming Motion Institute, which is involved in health care in Pennsylvania. Water remains the best drink for sports and exercise. But during intense or prolonged exercise, you might need to replenish your energy supplies. If so, go for a drink containing not more than eight per cent of carbohydrate. Avoid additives like caffeine, guarana, and - especially - ephedra (this herb is linked to known health problems). Don't go for carbonated drinks or those high in sugar either.