Weight Cutting - Rehydration

Rehydration

After weigh-ins, athletes should immediately begin rehydration. Some sporting events hold weigh-ins on the day before competition; others hold weigh-ins on the same day, only hours before competition. This is often done to discourage excessive weight cutting.

Athletes should continuously sip liquid containing carbs, protein, and sodium until they compete. Many athletes are told not to eat too much food all at once for this will lead to upset stomach. A small amount of food can be eaten once every hour before competition, and no later than 3 hours before an event starts. Rehydration cannot be achieved in a single sitting, as the body can only be rehydrated at a rate of 1.5 litres per hour (3.3 lb/h).

The best drink for rehydration is not pure water. The body requires electrolytes in order to retain water. An oral rehydration solution is the best choice. Sports drinks also work, but contain excessive sugar that may negatively affect performance. Another possible choice is vegetable juices and water. A popular rehydration drink among athletes is Pedialyte, due to its low sugar levels.

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