School has started and with it comes a new season of athletic events, both inside and out in the elements of the Northstate. It is important that the athletes who participate in both environments maintain one important health tip; proper hydration. Water is still the best source of replenishment and consumption needs to be constant throughout the day. The National Athletic Trainers Association has numerous articles emphasizing the importance of replacing lost fluids and how coaches and parents together play an important roll in maintaining proper hydration levels. Most young athletes enjoy consuming other beverages (soda, juice, energy drinks) and it becomes even more important from an educational standpoint to monitor and limit the consumption of these beverages. Some are more harmful than others; which is why water is the best choice.

  What is the proper amount of fluid replacement each day?  The minimum that should be consumed is 72 ounces per day; but that is for sendentary people. Those that are active should focus on one ounce of water per one pound of body weight. That sounds like alot, but the active athlete is losing water and minerals at a much faster rate; and add to it the heat of Redding, Ca. The athlete that doesn't consume enough water increases their chances for mucle cramping, muscle straining, or heat related illness.

 The responsibility of proper hydration falls on the athlete's shoulders first, but we can all assist in making sure they have the best shot at staying hydrated, which will give them the best shot at staying in the game.

By:

Steve Westlake, MA, ATC, CSCS, PTA