What is a primary strategy to prevent dehydration among athletes?

Frequent water breaks is a primary strategy to prevent dehydration among athletes because it allows for consistent fluid intake throughout physical activity. Athletes lose water through sweat and respiration during exercise, and regular hydration helps replenish fluids to maintain optimal performance and prevent adverse effects associated with dehydration, such as decreased endurance, increased fatigue, and impaired cognitive function.

This approach also encourages athletes to drink before they feel excessively thirsty, which can be a late indicator of dehydration. By integrating frequent breaks for hydration, athletes can better regulate their fluid intake, ensuring that their bodies remain well-hydrated, particularly during prolonged or intense physical exertion.

In contrast, delaying hydration until fatigue can lead to significant fluid loss and performance decline. Limiting water intake is counterproductive as it directly increases the risk of dehydration. Choosing only electrolyte drinks may not be necessary unless the activity is prolonged and sweats are high, as plain water is typically sufficient for most athletes in shorter events or workouts.