Importance of Hydration While Training Muay Thai in Thailand
Few workouts in the world can compare to Muay Thai when it comes to the intensity. A full session of Muay Thai training can easily burn over 1000 calories! It’s not surprising why more and more people are taking up the sport for fitness or weight-loss.
Every year, thousands of Muay Thai enthusiasts come to Thailand to learn the art in its land of birth. While the training is in itself a challenging workout, the country’s heat adds to the intensity. It is not uncommon for foreigners to overtrain within the first week, largely due to the year-round tropical climate. Temperatures frequently go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit or up to 40 degree Celsius between March to May. Even during the cooler season from November through February, 100-degree (F) days are common. Coupled with the high humidity that permeates the country for most parts of the year, getting drenched in perspiration is the order of the everyday.
Most first-timers to Thailand underestimate the humid heat and many experience mild or even acute dehydration during their visits. Training Muay Thai in the country accelerates fluid loss which can severely damper the vacation. Here are some ways to stay properly hydrated:
Sports Drink
While they tend to have a higher sugar content, the liquid carbohydrates help to replenish energy fast, replaces electrolytes and can aid in protein absorption. They can be bought easily in convenience stores that are found on every street in the country. Don’t sweat it - with the intensive workout, the body craves and needs that dose of sweetness.
Coconut Water
Refreshing, thirst-quenching and widely-available, coconut water is a lifesaver for visitors to Thailand. It also has more potassium than a sports drink but with less sugar and calories. Get a fresh one off the street vendors for quick hydration.
Electrolytes Powder
Electrolytes powder often come in sachet form and can be found in all pharmacies peppered around the cities, especially Bangkok. They are cheaper and contain less sugar than sports drinks. Just mix it up with a bottle of chilled water, shake it and it’s ready to drink.
Plain Water
There is no substitute for good old plain water. Potable water can be bought in bottled form in convenience stores and supermarkets everywhere in the country. The recommended daily fluid intake is 91 ounces (2.7 liters) for adult women and 125 ounces (3.7 liters) for adult men. Grab a few gallons and drink up frequently throughout the day.
Limit Alcohol Intake
It can be difficult to resist the countless bars and drinking holes in the big cities like Bangkok or Phuket island. For those looking to party the night away, bear in mind that excessive alcohol intake can lead to dehydration so it’s best to avoid or limit it to training off-days.
The importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated and this is especially true for Muay Thai athletes and practitioners. Water is vital for regulating body temperature and lubricating body joints. Besides that, it also helps to transport nutrients throughout the body for energy. Lack of hydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and in worse scenarios, muscle cramps and heat stroke. For the best performance in training, adequate hydration is a key. Cheers!
YOKKAO Training Center Bangkok
YOKKAO Training Center is the place to be in Bangkok. The camp is located in the central and exciting downtown Sukhumvit area with easy accessibility, unlimited food options, widest range of accommodations and entertainment. Most importantly, the camp is home to the champion trainers and world-renowned fighters who can provide the best training in a pleasant environment. Bottled water is available at the gym and there are convenience stores just a quick stroll away to grab a bottle of sports drink.
Head on over to YOKKAO Training Center Bangkok and experience authentic training in the heart of the Muay Thai capital.
