Drink Me: A Study of Hydration Types on Athletic Performance

Overview

Objective: Optimal athletic performance requires ample oxygen in muscle tissue for energy production, sustained activity and delaying fatigue. This study examines how different hydration types affect muscle oxygen levels (SmO2) during a standardized 2-mile run to determine whether commercially available performance drinks are better for peak performance compared to water. Methods: Four hydration types will be examined; water, Gatorade, Pedialyte, and ionized water. Hydration types will be randomized prior to the run and total hydration regulated, with the participant consuming a total of 1.2 liters of the selected hydration within 3 hours prior to the run. Study participant will run 2 miles at a 6:45 minute per mile pace on a treadmill wearing a Moxy5 muscle oxygen sensor on the vastus lateralis of the dominant leg. Data collected was partitioned into 3 phases; warmup, run, and cool down. Results: The results of the study showed that SmO2 levels drop dramatically during the run as expected and during cool down returns to levels comparable to levels during warmup. Interestingly, none of the hydration types resulted in a significant difference in muscle oxygen in any of the phases when compared to water or each other. Conclusion: Preliminary results suggest that with ample hydration prior to exercise, the type of fluid intake makes little difference. Further research with increased sample size and datapoints will provide more conclusive evidence. Additionally, a follow up study will examine whether hydration types make a difference in individuals who are under hydrated.

Competition history

• AJAS 2026 Category not listed

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