Girandola, R. N., Bassin, S. L., & Bharne, A. (1998). Maintaining thermal balance during exercise in heat; Effects of different replacement beverages. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 30(5), Supplement abstract 1892.

Ss (M = 9; F = 6) exercised at 50% VO2max on a cycle ergometer for one hour in a sauna (32-33 degrees Celsius). Replacement fluids were administered in three 250-ml doses during the exercise and included: plain water, Gatorade, and Miracle Sports Water. A no-fluid control was also included.

Both rectal and ear temperatures reflected heat stress in the exercise while oral temperature did not. Water and Miracle Sports Water were equally effective as Gatorade in maintaining hydration and relieving thermal stress.

Implication. Water is the important factor for maintaining hydration when exercising in the heat. What brand of water does not seem to matter.

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