what does water actually do

[specialk12]

i never understood why drinking a lot of water will help. What does it actually do to your body in determining mass gain. I am going to start drinking water. I have always read things about how people who are exercising, should drink a lot of water.
Why???

thanks

[jpfitness]

Now this is a special question...

Water is not some secret miracle bodybuilding supplement... Everyone should drink plenty of water so as not to become dehydrated. I carry a water bottle along with me everywhere I go. Cheaper and healthier than soda! No calories, and generally pretty effective at keeping the body's internal cooling system running efficiently. Yep, the ultimate supplement... H2O!

[Leandros]

To begin:

Sixty-six percent of a human being is water.

Seventy-five percent of the human brain is water.

"A reduction of 4-5% in body water will result in a decline of 20-30% in work performance." -- N.Y. Times Guide to Personal Health

"An athlete commonly loses four or five quarts (of water) in a practice session." -- "Realities of Nutrition"

I can pull more out if you like. Basically you should drink as much water as possible.

[specialk12]

I'm not saying that I won't drink water. I have and will continue to but what Im saying is how can that help you when working out. The only thing it does to me is make me use the bathroom, ALOT!!

[specialk12]

which is an inconvience sometimes

[Leandros]

I'm not sure what it can do for you while working out. I'm sure if you are lightheaded from lifting a lot water makes you feel better.

[freddy]

as they said, drink lots and lots of water. you body isnt going anywhere without water. usually, more water means that your body functions better in just about every way.

one thing i think should add: to be properly hydrated, one needs water AND electrolytes. normally, lack of electrolytes is not a problem. you usually get sodium from food, so, drinking lots of water will rehydrate you...however, if you are out in the sun all day, or in some other condition where your body's hydration is highly strained for a long time (and you are sweating a lot), drink a little bit of gatorade, or something with electrolytes, followed by a lot of water.

it is possible to drink too much water...however, to do this, you need to drink an absolutely ridiculous amount of water...i wouldnt worry too much about that...ive downed 2-3 gallons in a day on occaision with no problem.

[Exe]

I never drink water, I get enough liquid from my protein shake milk, and softdrinks.