Fluid replacement recommendations for training in hot weather

The U.S, Army's fluid replacement guidelines emphasize fluid replacement du ring hot weather training to prevent degradation of performance and minimiz e the risk of heat injury. Little consideration has been given, however, to possible overhydration and development of mater intoxication. Sufficient e pidemiological evidence is available to demonstrate an increasing incidence of water intoxication during military training. This article summarizes th e development and validation of revised fluid replacement guidelines for ho t weather training. The end product is an easy-to-read table that provides the user with the appropriate hourly work time and fluid intake to support work during hot weather training. The guidelines include the range of hot w eather conditions likely to be encountered during military training and cov er a broad range of military activities. It is expected that the revised gu idelines mill sustain hydration and minimize the number of heat injuries du ring military training while protecting the soldier from becoming sick from overdrinking.