Electrolytes play a major role in water regulation and water distribution in the body. For example, sodium, found in table salt, affects water regulation and blood pressure.
Potassium, chloride and magnesium are electrolytes that have a major role in muscle contraction and nerve conduction. If electrolyte levels are off, athletic performance will be affected and other serious complications can arise. Muscle cramps are a possible complication following an electrolyte imbalance. Check out this post on Flare magazine's website when I was quoted on the topic of muscle cramps:
http://tinyurl.com/ck779w.
Electrolytes are lost in sweat and urine. Sodium and chloride are the main electrolytes lost in sweat and to a lesser extent, potassium. For someone who is more fit, their sweat is more dilute than a person with a lower fitness level. The body has a way to reduce the amount of electrolyte loss in sweat and urine in fitter individuals.
Drinking palatable water during exercise is important to avoid dehydration. Aerobic endurance athletes may drink an electrolyte/carbohydrate drink to replenish lost electrolytes and sugar during their sport.
Usually, for those working out in the gym for 1 hour or less, these drinks are not necessary. I've seen it before where people who are trying to lose weight and who have started to work out, drink these sugar/electrolyte drinks when not at the gym. This is not a great idea because these drinks have calories and if weight loss is a goal, the person would benefit more from limiting flavored beverages and just drink water. A healthy diet will replenish the electrolytes lost when exercising.
Thanks for the question and thanks for reading,
-Coach Jon
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