Heart rate zones are powerful tools for optimizing your workout intensity and achieving your fitness goals. By calculating percentages of your maximum heart rate (HRmax), these zones provide a clear picture of how your body responds to exercise. Whether you’re looking to burn fat, build endurance, or improve cardiovascular fitness, this guide will help you understand the benefits of each zone and how to use them effectively in your training.What Are Heart Rate Zones?Heart rate zones are ranges of heart rates that correspond to different levels of exercise intensity. These zones are typically expressed as percentages of your maximum heart...

Proper hydration is essential for athletes to maintain performance, prevent dehydration, and optimize recovery. These guidelines provide evidence-based strategies tailored to endurance athletes and those engaging in prolonged physical activity.Pre-Exercise HydrationConsume 5–7 mL/kg of fluid containing sodium (20–50 mEq/L, equivalent to 460–1,150 mg/L, or 1.2–2.9 g/L of sodium chloride) at least 4 hours before an event or training session.1If you fail to produce urine or notice dark, concentrated urine, drink an additional 3–5 mL/kg of fluid within 2 hours before the activity.1 Simplified Formulation for 1,000 mL Solution: Carbohydrates: 30 g of sucrose & 15 g of maltodextrin (4.5% with a 2:1 glucose:fructose ratio) Sodium: 1 g of sodium chloride...