INTERVIEW KYLIE ANDREW magical. They really offer nothing more certain times, especially when there is than convenience. Real foods will be just also a need for fuel (carbohydrate). And ABOUT THE AUTHOR as good, if not better, in that they may the electrolytes in a sports drink will help Jorden Merrilees is the Copy provide other nutrients. replenish those salt losses and help the Editor at SMA. He received his body retain the fluid…all for better degree in Communications from the FLUIDS! YOU MENTIONED hydration. University of North Carolina at THIS EARLY ON. HOW Chapel Hill. IMPORTANT ARE FLUIDS WHAT IS AN IDEAL AMOUNT GOING TO BE FOR ATHLETES OF FLUID INTAKE LEADING COMPETING ON THE INTO THE GAMES? WHAT’S GOLD COAST? THE IDEAL AMOUNT OF FLUID WHILE COMPETING/ Staying well hydrated is particularly DAY OF COMPETITION? important for athletes. All athletes should already be monitoring their hydration This is very individual and will depend on status and fluid balance now in training. the event and the particular athlete’s If temps are going to be warmer than sweat rate, which is influenced by many they are used to, they will need to factors. Most athletes should already have become more aggressive with their a good idea of their own needs going into intake. Commonwealth Games and should have a hydration plan to ensure their needs can WHAT SORT OF THINGS be met. SHOULD THEY BE HYDRATING WITH? GATORADE, WATER, HYDRALYTE OR OTHER MIXES? Water is great for hydration. However, a sports drink can also be beneficial at VOLUME 36 • APRIL ISSUE 2018 45 noisiV latigiD/kcotsknihT