Final answer:
Athletes need to stay properly hydrated during workouts, and a general recommendation is to drink 7-10 ounces (200-300 milliliters) of a sports drink with 125 mg of sodium every 15 minutes. This amount should be adjusted based on individual sweat rates and conditions. Daily water intake needs, including all dietary sources, are approximately 3.7 liters for males and 2.7 liters for females.
Step-by-step explanation:
The consumption of water for an athlete during a workout can vary due to multiple factors, such as the intensity of the exercise, the environmental conditions, and the individual's unique physiology. However, hydration is crucial, and specific guidelines can help ensure that athletes maintain proper fluid balance. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, athletes should consume a sports drink with 125 milligrams of sodium per 8 ounces to help replenish sodium lost in sweat and improve hydration.
For an average adult, the daily water intake, including from all food and beverages, should be about 3.7 liters for males and 2.7 liters for females. This daily intake needs to be balanced with the total water output, which averages 2.5 liters a day. However, during workouts, sweating increases water loss, and athletes may need to consume more to maintain hydration levels.
While individual needs can be highly variable, a general recommendation for an athlete is to drink approximately every 15 to 20 minutes during physical activity to replace fluids lost through sweat. The exact amount can range from 7 to 10 ounces (approximately 200 to 300 milliliters) every 15 minutes, but this should be adjusted based on the athlete's sweat rate, the exercise conditions, and their personal tolerance.