Andy Blow
Sports scientist
Andy Blow is a sports scientist with a degree in sports and exercise science from the University of Bath. An expert in sweat, dehydration and cramping, Andy previously worked as the team sports scientist for the Benetton and Renault Formula 1 teams, and remains an adviser to the Porsche Human Performance Centre. He specialises in electrolyte replenishment and founded the company he now runs, Precision Hydration. An elite-level triathlete in his younger days, Andy has finished in the top-10 of Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races, as well as winning an Xterra world title. Andy has also worked alongside Dr Raj Jutley, as well as other top sports scientists, to co-author a number of studies and books which have been published in BMJ Journals, the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
Recent articles by Andy Blow
How to pace your run like a pro for maximum performance
The complete guide to why pacing the run is important and how to find your perfect race pace…
Does an endurance athlete's hydration needs change as they age?
Sports scientist Andy Blow examines whether the hydration needs of endurance athletes change as they age, and whether these changes need factoring into their nutrition plan.
How much carbohydrate, fluid and sodium do I need per hour for an Ironman?
Finding the right fuel and hydration balance can be tricky, but here's how to work out how much carbohydrate, fluid and sodium you need per hour for a long-course race
How to alleviate thigh cramp during a race
Ever suffered with cramp in your thighs during training and/or racing? Hydration expert Andy Blow has the solution…
How to choose trail running shoes
Here are some key features to look out for when selecting your next pair of trail-running shoes
Stitches when running: What causes it and how to prevent it
Getting a stitch when running can wreak havoc in your training or race, so how can you prevent it? Sports scientist Andy Blow and S&C coach Nick Beer provides the remedies…
VO2 max tests: What are they and why are they useful?
Coaches and training plans often refer to VO2 max tests, but what are they, and how can they be useful?
Why do I sneeze after swimming?
Sneezing after a pool swim can be a real nuisance, but it can be alleviated with these handy tips…
How much should I reduce my training by during the triathlon off-season?
Andy Blow explains how much you should dial down your training during the winter, without losing your training ‘base’.
Why does my sweat smell of ammonia?
Worried your sweat smells of ammonia? Sports scientist Andy Blow discusses possible causes and solutions
Why do I get itchy skin when I sweat?
Get a rash when you sweat when working out? Then you could have a sweat allergy, says sports scientist Andy Blow...
Improve your swim at home with these dry-land workouts
If you can’t get to the pool for whatever reason you can still work on your swim strength. Here to help you build crucial swim endurance is Andy Blow
Should you include long runs in your training?
One long run each week should be the cornerstone of your training, says Andy Blow. Here's why...
How hill running improves your fitness, strength and endurance
Hill running is a very useful method of training to build strength, power and top-end aerobic conditioning, says Andy Blow. Here he explains why it’s not just skiers who should be hitting the slopes
Post-exercise nausea: why do I feel sick and sometimes vomit after exercise?
Often feel sick after exercise? Sports scientist Andy Blow explains causes and prevention
Will increasing my lung power improve my performance?
Can increasing your lung power help improve your athletic performance? Andy Blow looks at the evidence
How much should you pee during an Ironman?
Wondering how much, and how often, you should pee during an Ironman? Hydration expert Andy Blow of Precision Hydration explains
Does a woman’s hydration needs differ to a man’s?
Andy Blow from Precision Hydration explains how a woman’s hydration needs differ to that of a man's
How hot weather affects your body and your ability to train and race
Hot weather can cause physiological challenges for athletes when training and racing. Sports scientist and Precision Hydration founder Andy Blow explains its impact
Why do I sweat a lot?
Sweat a lot when working out? It doesn't mean you're not fit says Andy Blow. Here he explains why fitter people can sweat more than the unfit...
Can I check my hydration levels via my urine?
Wondering whether checking the colour of your pee is an effective way of monitoring your hydration status? We take a look at the evidence
How does sweating help the body?
Understanding human biology and how it can affect our performance can only help us on our quest for sporting success. Here Andy Blow explains how and why we sweat, and why it’s so important to replace what we lose in sweat…
How much dehydration can you tolerate during an Ironman?
Sports scientist Andy Blow of Precision Hydration discusses how much dehydration athletes can cope with during a long-distance triathlon, without it having a detrimental effect on their tri performance
5 key ways cold weather affects your body and your training
We all know training outside when it's cold is tough, but have you ever thought how the freezing temperatures actually affects your body? Andy Blow explains 5 ways it can play havoc with your training