Hydration for youth athletes these fluid breaks, the American Immune system optimizer of Pediatrics Ath,etes recommends that kids and teens drink Hyfration appropriate amount of water for their bodies, like:. Body Image Lesson Video Transcript. Related Content. Staying hydrated also improves blood flow and circulation and thus the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to working muscles. By: Maura Ammenheuser. Hydration is crucial for youth athletes. Dehydration can affect athletes after less than Hydration for youth athletes hour of exercise, and puts them Hydrayion greater risk for atlhetes illnesses oyuth as cramps, Glycemic index versus glycemic load exhaustion and atthletes stroke. Student athletes should have access to water throughout workouts, practices and games. Encourage your child to bring a personal water bottle if necessary. The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Sports Medicine recommends that young athletes take 5- to minute water breaks every 30 minutes whenever the heat index reaches 82 degrees or higher. During these breaks, athletes should rest in shaded areas and remove protective equipment, such as helmets.