Athletic trainers working with athletic teams at all levels ranging from recreational leagues to elite level professional and Olympic athletes, one of their main responsibilities is maintaining the hydration of each individual. The consequences of a dehydrated athlete many times are injury and inability to participate. Hydration was an emphasis and water/electrolyte drinks were readily available.
With industrial athletes, especially manufacturing, we have seen the opposite. Hydration is not an emphasis and water/electrolyte drinks are NOT readily available. So why do we not emphasize hydration for industrial athlete? The truth is: your workplace is a performance arena too and we should be providing hydration alternatives.
Whether it’s a manufacturing floor, a construction site, a hospital ward, or a warehouse—your people are performing under pressure. And just like elite athletes, they need to be hydrated to bring their best.
Hydration: The Overlooked Performance Multiplier
In sports, hydration is part of the playbook. Why? Because even 1–2% dehydration can lead to a measurable drop in performance. Reaction times slow. Focus fades. Decision-making becomes clouded. Muscles fatigue faster. Mistakes become more likely.
Now think about that in the workplace.
- A delayed reaction on a factory floor
- A poor decision in a high-pressure meeting
- A lack of focus during a critical sales call
- An increased risk of injury or burnout in physically demanding roles
These aren’t minor issues. They’re costly.
The Science Doesn’t Change—Only the Arena Does
Athletic teams monitor hydration levels with precision because they understand how directly it affects performance. They encourage regular water intake, provide electrolyte-rich options, and measure sweat loss after training.
Why don’t we take the same approach at work?
The workplace may look different than a stadium, but the human body functions the same way:
Performance Factor Dehydration Effect
Mental Clarity Decreased cognitive function
Physical Energy Early fatigue and weakness
Decision-Making Impaired judgment
Safety Higher risk of accidents
Morale & Mood Irritability, reduced morale
Build a Hydration Culture: Borrowing From the Pros
You don’t need million-dollar equipment or sports science staff to apply what elite teams already know. You just need a strategy and buy-in from leadership.
Here’s how to get started:
🟢 Hydration as Part of the Daily Routine
Just like a pre-game huddle, begin each shift or meeting by encouraging hydration. Make it a daily cue.
🟢 Make Water and Electrolytes Easily Accessible
Don’t make your team walk across the building for a drink. Place water stations and low-sugar electrolyte options where the work happens.
🟢 Use Visual Reminders and Simple Checks
Post hydration charts in break rooms or workstations: “Pale yellow urine = good. Anything darker? Time to drink.”
🟢 Hydrate First, Caffeinate Second
Encourage team members to drink water before they reach for their second or third coffee, tea or soft drink. They may not need the caffeine if they’re already hydrated.
Your Team Is the Real MVP
If athletes need hydration to win, so does your team. The stakes might be different—but the need for sharpness, energy, and safety is just as high.
When you prioritize hydration, you’re not just helping people feel better. You’re creating a culture that values performance, well-being, and smart decision-making.
So start treating your workplace like the high-performance environment it really is.
Because in both business and sports, the best teams never overlook the basics.
