Hydration and Workout Performance: A Simple Planner

January 1, 20255 min read

Optimize your water intake for exercise performance using our hydration calculator and expert guidelines.

Why Hydration Matters for Performance

Even mild dehydration (2% body weight loss) can significantly impact your workout performance, reducing strength by 15% and endurance by up to 30%.

🧮 Calculate Your Hydration Needs

Get personalized water intake recommendations based on your activity level.

Hydration Calculator

Pre-Workout Hydration Strategy

Start your workout properly hydrated with this timeline:

4 Hours Before: 500-600ml

Drink 2-3 cups of water to ensure you start well-hydrated.

2 Hours Before: 200-300ml

Top off your hydration and allow time for any excess to be eliminated.

15-30 Minutes Before: 150-250ml

Final hydration boost, especially important in hot conditions.

During Exercise Hydration

For workouts longer than 60 minutes:

  • Every 15-20 minutes: 150-250ml of fluid
  • Hot conditions: Increase by 50-100ml per interval
  • Intense exercise: Consider electrolyte replacement
  • Listen to your body: Thirst is a late indicator of dehydration

Post-Workout Recovery

Proper rehydration is crucial for recovery:

Immediate (0-2 hours): 150% of fluid lost

Weigh yourself before and after exercise. Drink 1.5L for every 1kg lost.

Extended (2-6 hours): Monitor urine color

Aim for pale yellow. Dark yellow indicates continued dehydration.

Hydration Myths Debunked

  • Myth: Clear urine means optimal hydration
    Truth: Pale yellow is ideal; clear may indicate overhydration
  • Myth: Thirst is a good hydration indicator
    Truth: Thirst appears when you're already 2% dehydrated
  • Myth: More water is always better
    Truth: Overhydration can dilute electrolytes dangerously