What is a sweat test?

Sweat testing is an exercise-based hydration assessment undertaken to better understand an individual's sweat profile, incorporating sweat rate (how much fluid is lost through sweating during exercise) and sweat sodium concentration (how salty your sweat is), to assist with the development of individualised hydration strategies for before, during and after exercise.  

Each individual's sweat profile is unique, and can be affected by a number of factors including:
  • FITNESS - Fitter athletes sweat sooner and more heavily than those less conditioned to training.
  • EXERCISE INTENSITY - The higher the intensity, the more you will sweat.
  • BODY SIZE - Larger athletes and those with greater muscle mass sweat more.
  • HYDRATION STATUS - The  better hydrated you are, the more you are able to sweat. As you become more dehydrated, your sweat rate reduces and your body temperature rises.
  • ENVIRONMENT - Sweat rate increases  in higher temperatures and humidity levels. Likewise, in cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels you do not sweat as much.
  • HEAT ACCLIMATISATION
  • DIET
  • GENETICS

Would you benefit from sweat testing?

A sweat test is suitable for elite athletes, weekend warriors and everyone in between. You may have experienced cramping during exercise, or simply observed that you sweat a lot (or not much at all)! A sweat test is beneficial for anyone who would like to individualise their hydration strategy and optimise their sporting performance. 

What does a sweat test involve?


Process
The testing involves a 30 ‐ 60 min run or ride and includes:
  • Testing Urine Specific Gravity for pre‐test hydration status
  • Measuring body mass pre‐ and post‐ exercise to determine fluid requirements
  • Application of sweat patches to collect and test for sodium content of sweat
Note: For best results, it is recommended that you do not exercise vigorously in the 8 hours prior to
the scheduled sweat test, and you should be normally hydrated at the start of the session.

What to bring to the session
  • A towel and bottles of water/ sports drink to consume during the session
  • Your bike and wind trainer (if doing a cycling-based assessment)
  • Please wear your usual running or cycling attire

At the conclusion of the session, the sweat patches will be sent The Sweat Lab in Melbourne for
laboratory analysis. Michelle will receive and interpret the results, and write a detailed report with
your fluid requirements and recommended strategies to ensure you meet your needs. Results will be
provided 1‐2 weeks post session. 

Cost
$220 - includes the testing session and associated materials, laboratory costs and reporting with recommendations.
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