Drinking beer seems to have become a post-workout ritual. Where does this idea come from? Are there any benefits?

You may have seen those beer commercials with a group of athletes throwing back some brews after a tough training session. Or maybe you’ve signed up for one of those endurance races that reward you with a beer the moment you cross the finish line.

 Fans argue that beer provides carbs and electrolytes, both of which tend to get depleted during long or intense exercise sessions. Others argue that the social aspect of hitting the bar with friends for a celebratory beer after a gruelling run or workout may be a great way to encourage regular exercise.

How Alcohol Hurts Your Workout Recovery

What’s more, alcohol is dehydrating, which is the opposite of what you want immediately following a workout. Dehydration will only make it harder for you to recover from your training session, leading to a longer recovery time and fewer fitness gains.

When your muscles are already dehydrated after your workout, drinking alcohol will only dehydrate them even more, ultimately preventing those muscles from rebounding and repairing the way you need them to in order to see fitness gains.

Should You Ever Have a Post-Workout Beer?

That said, no need to always skip the post-workout beer (where’s the fun in that?!?) As long as you only drink occasionally (i.e., don’t go out drinking with your running group three nights a week!), practice moderation and understand that you’re drinking to indulge — as opposed to drinking as a recovery strategy — you should be fine. And be sure to drink a few glasses of water alongside your beer!

Cheers!