Pretty simple advice folks! As runners we need to keep hydrated. I’m not going to tell you how much water you need to be drinking as that will vary from one runner to the next.
But with the temperatures due to rise over the next few months it is important to ensure we are properly hydrated.
I just wanted to share a few tips that I have picked up on my training & coaching journey in recent years.
START YOUR DAY WITH A GLASS OF WATER
This is my favourite tip from Olympic Marathon runner Stephen Scullion. Always start your day with a glass of water. It should be the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning.
I tend to drink a pint of water first thing and it just feels very refreshing and cleanses our my system.
FINISH EACH SESSION OR RUN WITH WATER
We don’t always need to carry water on a run but if you are doing a tough session or even a 60 minute easy run, take some water with you. At the end of the session drink up to half a litre to replace any fluids you may have lost from sweating.
It’s just a really good habit to get into. There’s a reason why every official race will have water on the finish line. Treat your training runs with the same respect.
STAY HYDRATED ON YOUR SUMMER LONG RUNS
If you are heading out for a long run in the summer months then it is important that you have access to water.
Some routes may have water available. I’ve often done a summer long run carrying two water bottles and even then I’ve had to stop halfway to top up.
Another option is to park your car in the middle of your route. So you’d come back to the start after 45 mins or so, top up on water and then head off again.
USE THE CORRECT WATER BOTTLES
My favourite water bottles are these. You don’t need to grasp the bottle as you can tighten the strap and once you’ve drunk some of the water you’ll forget you are even carrying it.
They have zip pockets if you want to carry your keys, gels or money in them. Well worth the investment and as long as you clean them out they should last a long time.
I hope this article has at least got you thinking about your hydration heading into the warmer months to the year. Please respect the hotter climates and stay hydrated.
