Save money by ditching expensive branded energy and recovery drinks and pour yourself a glass of water.

You’re probably already aware of how important it is to replace the water lost during a workout by drinking water both during and after you train.

However, did you know that drinking water before you hit the gym can actually improve your workout performance? And better yet, you can get it free from the tap!

Hydrating yourself before a workout out has the following benefits:

Train with more intensity

Drinking water before you exercise helps you to train with more intensity. Because the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard to circulate blood around your body if it is hydrated, drinking water before you exercise will help to keep your heart rate low and allow you to train harder.

Prevent injury

A vital job that water plays in the body is to help lubricate muscles and joints. Well lubricated muscles are better protected against injury. Drink water before you train to help you have an enjoyable and pain free workout.

Prepare your body

Drinking water 2-3 hours before you exercise will ensure that your body has the reserves it needs to produce sweat. Remember that any water you drink immediately before working out won’t have made it into your system yet.

Prevent dehydration

Some people have difficulty drinking water during a workout because it gives them stomach cramps. However, drinking water before a workout reduces your chances of becoming dehydrated. Dehydration can cut your training session short as it can cause early fatigue and, more seriously, heat stroke.

Train for longer

Water helps to transport glucose, oxygen and fat to your muscles. Being well hydrated will enable your body to do this more efficiently and therefore enable you to train longer.

So the next time you are planning a trip to the gym, ensure that you drink plenty of water before you go to get the most from your workout.