The Reasonable Runner

A critical part of a healthy running life is hydration. As easy as it can be to focus on your meals before and after you exercise, hydration is equally as important to your health, preparation, and recovery.

When you exercise, especially intensely or for prolonged periods of time, your body is losing more than just water. While sweat is almost 99% water, it also contains salt and glucose (sugars). This means that when you are running or exercising, it is also important to replenish your body’s salt and glucose supplies.

Please don’t misunderstand me, I love water and I will always use water as my go-to post-workout beverage! But, when I’ve completed a long run or an intense workout, I find that I feel significantly better and my recovery is far easier when I drink an electrolyte beverage, or water mixed with an electrolyte powder. If you are purchasing an electrolyte sports drink, certainly aim for a beverage that is low in added sugars, and free of an excess amount of artificial colors or additives. I prefer electrolyte-based powders that I can mix with water, and my favorite is currently produced by Skratch Labs, found on Amazon by clicking here.

This powder contains set amounts of salt and sugars that help to replenish what is lost by your body as you sweat. I genuinely enjoy the taste of this one, and adding this to my water after a run helps me to feel more hydrated, less fatigued, and better overall. Fitness and nutrition experts state that these electrolyte mixes are most effective when consumed after exercising/running for 60 minutes or more, but you can use it for any duration of exercise completed.

Those who live at high altitudes also benefit greatly from adding electrolytes to their water, and I strongly recommend them for any athlete working hard at high altitude. Before you run or exercise, be sure to hydrate throughout the day to help counter the effects of your upcoming exercise. This will help ensure your body has less to replenish after you’ve sweat, and will also help you feel your best all day long!

When in doubt, hydrate! Focus on your water and hydration just as much as you are mindful of your food and meals. Getting into good hydration habits will not only set you up for athletic success, but promote health in your body in and outside of the gym.