Training
Hypohydration
Following the greek roots of the word prefix hypo- we can see that hypohydration is when the total body water is below normal level - that is, when we are dehydrated.
Hypohydration has many side effects that can affect the performance of an archer:
• Increases body temperature
• Elevates heart rate
• Increases risk of heat stroke
• Increases fatigue
• Reduces mental function
• Affects fine motor control
• Affects concentration, decision making and Performance
By drinking regularly during exercise/competition, athletes can prevent declines in concentration and skill level, improve perceived exertion, prevent excessive elevations in heart rate and body temperature and improved performance - good justification for every athlete and coach to make fluid replacement a key priority during training and competition.
How much should athletes drink during exercise?
Fluid - Who needs it?
The Australian Institute of Sport has done extensive research and has come up with an excellent three page fact sheet in PDF format - Fluid - who needs it?
We recommend that every athlete and coach should take time to read this and develop and implement hydration strategies during training and competition.