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Sweat Composition Testing

What is Sweat Composition Testing?

Sweat Composition Testing is the processes of identifying how much sodium an individual loses in sweat per unit volume.

Using technology that was originally developed for use in the diagnosis of certain inherited diseases in children, we can now measure the key variable (sodium concentration lost in sweat) that determines each individual’s specific electrolyte needs.

This test produces one's individual sodium loss per liter volume. With this information, we can then devise a strategy oriented around rehydration as it relates to one's personal goals (Training, Performance, Recovery, etc).


Sweat Testing - The Process!

Each person’s sweat composition is relatively fixed over their lifetime genetically, so completing one test should be sufficient for most athletes. This video showcases the whole process, start to finish, and highlights key processes like sweat gland stimulation, sweat collection, and sodium concentration analysis.

Schedule Your Sweat Composition Test

The cost of the test is $200, and it includes: an excel spreadsheet with your sodium concentration loss (per Liter), information that can help you dose the appropriate amount of sodium per various bottle sizes (500ml hand flask -> 24oz cycling bottle), and a post test consultation to dial in a strategy as it relates to certain goals such as training, racing, or recovery.

Please plan to spend an hour with us for your test. 

You may also add this service to a professional bike fit to make it a Performance Package ($500 total) to get the best value. Call us or email us to schedule this package. 

"What you don't know about electrolytes, and need to learn"

Ryan Ignatz on the Fastest Known Time (FKT) Podcast

Listen to our Performance Director, Ryan Ignatz, discussing our Sweat Testing process with Buzz Burrell of Fastest Known Time, who came in for a Sweat Test himself. 

"You lose 1,453mg of Sodium per liter of sweat.  You are a very salty sweater."

Buzz rarely supplements his fluid intake with electrolytes. Does that mean he's been doing it wrong for 50 years?  Probably yes!  Aack!

The current wisdom is "Drink to thirst".  Is that good advice?

"No. Your body always will protect its Sodium concentration, so will reduce your thirst sensation to avoid diluting its Sodium."

Don't continue to make the same mistakes Buzz has made.  Listen to Ryan on this podcast, and consider being tested yourself.