We all know we should be hydrating before a workout, training, a class, etc. But is there an ideal way to do it? The simple answer, yes.
When should you hydrate for a workout?
Most of us head into a workout or class, water bottle in hand, ready to take a sip for that moment about 30 minuets in when we need to quench our insatiable thirst. But, what if we could prep our body for the work we were about to do instead of trying to play catch up? Netflix's Water Sommelier, Martin Riese, (seen in Down To Earth with Zach Efron) suggests "Since it takes your body 45 minutes to go from a slightly dehydrated state to a fully hydrated state, it makes way more sense to drink water BEFOR you exercise."
Our very own Founder and CEO, Lani Cooper, would say the same thing, "We are not camels, so I am big on the pre-hydration game."
Bottom Line: Drink around 16oz of water 30-45 minutes before your workout.
What should you hydrate with?
Water should be the clear answer here, however there are some things to consider when choosing your water. Water Sommelier, Martin Riese, says, "Drink water with minerals in it because it has electrolytes in it which is what you really need when you are exercising." And he is right on the money!
Electrolytes are minerals like:
- sodium
- calcium
- potassium
- chloride
- phosphate
- magnesium
"They're often talked about in association with dehydration and mentioned in ads for sports drinks that promise to replace electrolytes lost through sweat.
Q: Why are electrolytes important?
They do a lot in the body. They regulate muscle contractions and keep you hydrated. Electrolytes also help balance your pH levels (the measure of acidity and alkalinity). And they also control nervous-system function.
Q: What are some signs of low electrolyte levels?
Fatigue, headache, nausea, blood pressure changes, muscle cramps, low energy, and simply not feeling well.
Q: How do we lose electrolytes?
We mostly lose electrolytes through sweat and urine. But also vomiting and diarrhea."
-Cedars Sinai
Q: So, how do you make sure you are getting enough electrolytes?
Most people, if they are eating a healthy, balanced, whole food diet will get them through their food. However, when exercising, you are loosing more than your average day of walking around because you are sweating, and that is where mixing your water and electrolytes mixing is a win win situation.
There are many electrolyte supplements out there as well as natural waters like coconut water that are high in the minerals you will need to be ready, stay ready, and recover from your workout. We suggest making sure you are purchasing supplements that are sustainably sourced, produced and packaged as well was nutritionally rich and not drowned in sugar.
