A Bit About Hydration

Hello Superwomenrunners!

I hope the new month is treating everyone well and hopefully the weather will slowly improve for us. Has anyone else noticed the days getting longer? I find this exciting because soon runs after work will be warmer with more sun and runs before work will start to get sunny too! And for those of you who like to tan (cough cough Kate cough cough) getting out during prime tanning hours lets you get sun and exercise at the same time.

One thing to remember that I have not talked about yet is the importance of staying hydrated, and not just hydrated, but making sure you have enough electorlytes after a workout where you have sweated heavily. Electorlytes are important because

"...they are what your cells (especially nerve, heart, muscle) use to maintain voltages across their cell membranes and to carry electrical impulses (nerve impulses, muscle contractions) across themselves and to other cells. Your kidneys work to keep the electrolyte concentrations in your blood constant despite changes in your body. For example, when you exercise heavily, you lose electrolytes in your sweat, particularly sodium and potassium. These electrolytes must be replaced to keep the electrolyte concentrations of your body fluids constant. So, many sports drinks have sodium chloride or potassium chloride added to them. They also have sugar and flavorings to provide your body with extra energy and to make the drink taste better."

(http://health.howstuffworks.com/question565.htm)

So, when you do have those heavy duty workouts or longer workouts, make sure you find a sports drink you like. There are many out there, one that many people are probably familiar with is Gatorade. (Be careful too not to overhydrate, drink if you are thirsty, or should be dehydrated, but be reasonable about it. Drinking large quantities of water will not make your legs indestrucable, drinking the correct amount for your body will make you tire less quickly :) ) If anyone has any questions about this feel free to post a comment!