Water is taken into the body through the consumption of fluids, water within solid foods consumed, and created within the cell through oxidation. Water is lost by urine excretion, stool excretion, sweat, and respiration. Therefore we must find a balance between our fluid intake and fluid excretion.

During exercise our body regulates its core temperature through sweat. As a result we often excrete more water than we intake, which can lead to heat cramps, heat syncope, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. The most common electrolyte/fluid imbalances are heat cramps and syncope and dehydration.

Dehydration is the most common water/electrolyte imbalance. Each pound of weight lost represents 16oz. of fluid or two cups of sweat. Therefore this measurement should be used as a guideline for fluid replacement after an exercise session. However precaution for dehydration should begin before, during, and after exercise.