Hy-Vee® KidsFit™

Hydrating and fueling our bodies are two important parts of training and preparing for physical challenges. Hydrating our bodies with water throughout the day can help prevent muscle cramps and dehydration while you train. It can also help our heart pump blood and oxygen to our muscles much easier!  

Failing to properly hydrate before intense physical activity can lead to dehydration, when you lose more fluids than you take in. Pedialyte® replaces fluids and electrolytes so you can keep going. When you sweat, you lose electrolytes that are essential. They balance fluids in your body and carry electrical signals to power your nerves and muscles.  

That’s why it is super important to know how to properly hydrate when participating in outdoor physical activities like training for a race or playing sports in hot and humid environments. Here are some hydration and fueling tips to help power you through any physical event: 

1. Drink at least 4-8 cups of water per day depending on your age!
2. Eat a meal consisting of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats 2-3 hours before your physical activity begins. Have a small snack rich in carbohydrates 30-60 minutes before your activity begins as well!
3. Drink Pedialyte to replenish lost fluid and electrolytes. 

In addition to hydration, a well-rounded diet is also essential to having enough energy to power us through training. Try to incorporate all 5 major food groups to get all the important nutrients your body needs.  The 5 food groups are are protein, fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy. 

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy that will help power you through a long race or training session, as they are the food source our body uses first for the energy to exercise. It’s also important to include electrolytes in your diet as well, these will help your body manage the fluids you drink. Most electrolytes can be obtained by eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in protein.

Try out these tips to keep your body well hydrated and fueled to take on any physical challenge!