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Most of the weight you lose during an event or training session is
water lost through sweat. Of course, you lose some weight when your
body burns materials for energy. For example, the glycogen stored in
liver and muscle cells is used for energy, which results in some weight
loss. Some fat and protein is burned for energy, too, and that results
in additional weight loss. However, most of the weight you lose during
strenuous physical activity is water lost through perspiration.
Some coaches and trainers weigh athletes before a contest or workout
and then again after the activity is over. Before the athletes leave
the facility, they are encouraged to drink water until they are within
one pound of their pre-session weight. Two eight-ounce cups of water
are consumed for each pound lost. This practice--weighing in, weighing
out, and drinking the difference--is an excellent way of guarding against
dehydration. You can do this on your own even if your coach doesn't
require it.
Next: Dehydration Is Not a Way to Make Weight |