ABSTRACT
Discussions and recommendations related to water and ªuids needs are an interesting paradox. The mainstream media reports and discusses daily ªuid needs as well as the extent to which water is a primary constituent of the human body and its daily role in metabolism and cell function. However, a lack of appreciation from athletes themselves and coaches seems to exist regarding daily implementation of these requirements. Recently, the Institute of Medicine put forth of™cial recommendations regarding hydration and clearly de™ned an adequate intake for ªuid (Institute of Medicine and Food and Nutrition Board 2004). This value is based on experimentally derived intake levels that are expected to meet nutritional adequacy for essentially all members of the population.
