Why should you stay hydrated during exercise?

• A. To increase muscle mass.
• B. To decrease muscle soreness.
• C. To lower resting heart rate.
• D. To improve balance.

Answer: (B)

Staying hydrated during exercise supports fluid balance, temperature regulation, and proper muscle function. As you sweat, you lose water and electrolytes; replacing them helps maintain blood volume so your heart can pump efficiently and your muscles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need. Adequate hydration also aids the removal of waste products from muscles and can lessen post-exercise soreness, helping you recover faster. Among the options, reducing muscle soreness best captures the practical benefit of drinking water during a workout. Hydration doesn’t directly build muscle mass, nor does it directly lower resting heart rate or guarantee improved balance in the moment.