Alcohol ingestion has been shown to decrease pulmonary ventilation during cycle ergometer test. Hydration Adequate amounts of fluids must be drank to maintain top athletic performance. Fluids in the urine eliminate metabolic waste products. Fluids in the sweat dissipate heat through the skin. If to little fluid is ingested and fluid loss is too great the body's ability to accomplish important functions are reduced and the athlete's ability to maintain quality performance is limited.
Athletes lose large quantities of fluids through sweat.
This is often the reasons an athlete's body weight fluctuates. For every pound of body weight lost 2 cups of fluids should be ingested. During hot weather it is important to closely monitor weight loss through sweating, athletes can easily lose 5 to 8 lb. Monitored body weight before and after competitions and practices. Extreme weight loss may indicate possible dehydration and a need for greater intakes or fluids.