When it comes to fitness, there should always be a balance between exercise and diet. Combining these variables can significantly increase one’s muscular gains, eventually leading to the ideal body that one desires. However, the body often needs more than just a normal diet and adequate hydration, and Arnold Schwarzenegger has advised his ‘village’ members to opt for electrolytes in his newsletter.
Electrolytes are minerals found in everyone’s blood and other bodily fluids. They effectively influence the acidity of blood, neurons, and muscle function. Although ordinary water can easily keep the body hydrated, there are instances when a fitness enthusiast may require more, and electrolytes are ideal for the task while offering further benefits, as the Austrian Oak writes:
“Research suggests hydrating with electrolytes before or after your workout could boost performance, reduce fatigue, and improve recovery. And you might be under-fueling more than you think.”
Even though the fitness sector is exposed to an array of pre-workout supplements on the market, including something as simple as coffee, many enthusiasts begin their gym sessions without sufficient hydration. This might result in a significant loss in performance, as most people lose 1.5 to two liters of water each hour during a rigorous training session, with others losing more depending on sweating levels.
This becomes a huge problem for the Terminator star, as he does not want his ‘village’ members to sacrifice their time at the gym for absolutely no reward, as he writes:
“Studies have found that for each percentage loss in water, you’ll see increasing drops in performance. The more sodium you lose, the more it affects how your muscles contract, fatigue, endurance, and recovery.”
Electrolytes contain vital minerals such as sodium, calcium, and potassium, which greatly benefit the consumer by minimizing or preventing muscle cramps. However, many might be confused about when to consume said electrolytes, and for this, Schwarzenegger suggests a few remedies.
The first indication to acquire electrolytes is if one’s training lasts more than 60–90 minutes, as they can considerably benefit from it. People who are training in extreme temperatures should also take minerals to stay hydrated during their workout. The third clue is that if a person is sweating more than usual, electrolytes may provide them with additional energy.
As far as sweating is concerned, people should consume electrolytes if their sweat is irritating their eyes, or if there are any stains, including white and grainy lines, on their skin or clothing. Furthermore, the Austrian Oak also suggested electrolytes for people who are prone to muscle cramps and like salty meals after their workout.
In his final suggestion, he wants his ‘village’ members to take electrolytes if they get a head rush or feel light-headed while standing up rapidly after any type of exercise. Schwarzenegger also emphasizes that there is no need to be concerned, as any of these aspects could be related to a shortage of salt in one’s body.
Interestingly, electrolytes are nothing new to the bodybuilder, as he once mentioned a study that favored it as one of the strongest post-workout drinks.
Schwarzenegger Unveils Further Benefits of Electrolytes
Despite the plethora of post-workout drinks, Arnold Schwarzenegger has long recognized the benefits of electrolytes. According to studies, sugar-free versions of these minerals can help reduce muscle cramps after exercise.
Scientists discovered this after comparing plain water, sugar-free electrolytes, and electrolytes with carbohydrates on 20 people who had completed a three-hour workout for each drink. While both electrolyte variations adequately replenished lost vitamins and minerals, the sugar-free one performed best, reducing the severity and likelihood of post-training cramps and even aiding in fat loss.
