Why Hydrate?

We all know that water is necessary for life... and exercise. In extreme cases, it can lead to heat exhaustion and death, but we all suffer from dehydration on a daily basis. Granted, it’s a bit more moderate, but water affects us every day, especially in our workouts.

You don’t have to be an elite athlete to suffer the ill effects of dehydration. Our bodies are constantly losing water to the outside world through sweat and urine, so our task is to effectively replenish these fluids throughout the day.

Dehydration and/or an imbalance in your electrolytes decreases your ability to regulate body temperature. An increase in temperature negatively affects optimal muscle contractions and can lead to muscle cramps, soreness and even muscle pulls and strains.

Ok, hydration is important, but how do you stay properly hydrated?

Here are Rough-Fit’s 4 Tips:

1. Drink

It may sound simple, but many of us just don’t drink enough. Think before, during and after... exercise that is. It is best to start the workout optimally hydrated, limit losses during your workout, and replenish afterwards. It is common to lose 1-2 liters of sweat in an hour of exercise, and an average adult loses 2+ liters a day with no activity. Do the math, do you drink enough?

2. Don’t strive for clear pee!

Why do we think clear is best? Sure, you have plenty of water flowing through your body, but it is definitely not getting absorbed like it needs to be. Think more lemonade color, and if you are peeing a lot and it’s hard to hold it, or if you suffer from clear pee, you need SALTS. You know we are fans of sea salt, but there are flavored tablets and other ways to add electrolytes to your glass of water. Electrolytes are essential for proper cell and muscle function, so don’t avoid them!

3. Dilute it

If you’re using a sports drink for hydration during exercise, it probably has too many grams of carbohydrates to be quickly absorbed by the body. Try cutting it down with 50% water, your body will thank you.

4. Variety is the spice of life

If plain water gets tiring, feel free to drink other fluids besides water in moderate amounts between workouts. Along with a variety of fruits and veggies, variety will ensure you are getting essential minerals and electrolytes into your system.

Hydration is key, so don’t forget it!