Staying Hydrated

Kevin makes waves with his answer.

By Kevin Valluzi

Which one is better: water or energy drinks? I might stir up a little controversy here with my answer but I'm prepared for that because this might be something that you don't want to hear. I feel that, hands down, water is the best thing for you when you are working out. Before I explain, let me make one thing clear: I recommend water for the average, everyday workout. I am not talking about marathon training, ultra-endurance events, etc.  If you're like most people and you workout for 30 to 45 minutes per workout and your goal is to lose fat/weight, then you might just be sabotaging your efforts by chugging down a so called "energy drink" during your workout. Most of these energy drinks are filled with sugar, preservatives, a lot of carbohydrates, etc. Now I know what you might be thinking that your body needs the carbs during the workout. But that's not necessarily true. You're much better off eating a small meal about a half-hour before your workout (such as half an apple w/ peanut butter, handful of nuts, rice cake with low fat cheese, etc.) and then consuming water during your workout.

Of course you should be replenishing your body after your workout by continuing to drink water and then eating some more protein and carbohydrates.

Now I don't want you to be misled and think that the reason you are not losing any weight is because you are drinking an energy drink during your workout. I am not saying that. What I am saying is that drinking these drinks is not necessary and it will definitely not help you in your weight loss efforts. I feel for the average exerciser they are "blindly" just consuming these drinks because they think that they are getting more "energy" during their workout. I'm afraid that just is not the case. All they are getting is just a few extra unnecessary calories.

So stick with the water -- it's cheaper too!