You Ask, I Answer: Gatorade

Is it a good idea to have Gatorade to replenish body fluids if you are doing a long workout (more than 2 hours) at high intensity? I think it definitely helps. What do you recommend?
-- Anonymous

Great question! My main issue with sports drinks is that many people believe – mainly due to marketing tactics – they are always necessary.

If you are exercising moderately for less than 45 minutes, water will do just fine.

Now, if you are exercising at high intensity for more than 2 hours, then yes, a sports drink would be a good idea, mainly to keep fatigue at bay and replenish lost electrolytes.

More casual exercisers need to realize that the 90 calories burned during 20 minutes of speed walking don’t mean a thing when followed by a 110-calorie bottle of Gatorade!