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Dehydration significantly impacts exercise performance, mainly by causing decreased performance and fatigue. When the body loses fluids through sweat and inadequate hydration is not replenished, it can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes and a decrease in blood volume. This results in decreased cardiac output and, consequently, reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to working muscles.

As a person becomes dehydrated, they may experience increased perceived exertion, meaning that they feel their effort is much harder than it actually is. This affects both endurance and strength performance, as the body is not able to function optimally. Additionally, dehydration can impair thermoregulation, leading to a higher risk of overheating, which can further exacerbate fatigue and decrease performance levels.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for anyone involved in physical activities, as maintaining proper hydration before, during, and after exercise is key to optimizing performance and ensuring safety.