Drinking Water is Cool

Maybe it’s just me but I notice odd things about people at the gym or in group classes. One thing that amazes me is the lack of water people drink while working out! Water has so many benefits and I do not need to bore you with why drinking water is so important.

Here’s my issue, according to an article I read on lifehacker , an average a person should drink 17 to 20 ounces of water 2 to 3 hours before exercising, another 8 ounces during your warm-up (or 20 to 30 minutes before exercising), 7 to 10 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise, and 8 ounces of water within 30 minutes after exercising. Do you do that?  I certainly don’t but even if this is over the top, it’s still really important to hydrate during your workouts!

Let’s take a 45 minute spin class for example.  I would recommend that you bring a 20oz. bottle of water and that should be fully consumed by the end of your class. I often notice some people come into class without any water! Or they will only drink their water when the instructor tells them to or when the instructor drinks water.  I admit I get distracted by noticing how much water people are drinking but when I see people in a hot yoga class drinking half their bottle of water, I just shake my head.

Why do people do this? I believe some think it’s a sign of weakness when you stop to take a sip. It’s the “no pain, no gain” mentality with your inner voice saying, “I can’t stop to drink water; people will think I can’t keep going!” Well I learned the hard way how dangerous it is to limit your water intake. I have low blood pressure and some minor kidney and bladder issues; I know now lack of hydration was one key factor.

It also bothers me when instructors do not drink water; your “students” are looking at you as the expert — the healthy and fit one. Now that I am a spin instructor myself, I drink as much water as I need, and remind everyone to do the same. I find it helps to take the ego out of the room since we are all here to work out, not pass out!

Here are my tips on how to sneak in water whenever possible:

Buy a cool water bottle. They’re more fun! I recently purchased this (link) Contigo bottle and it’s the best because my water stays cold for over 12 hours!  Eat your fruits and vegetables! Yes, there’s water in that cucumber. Every bit counts.Take small sip throughout the day. You’ll be amazed how much water you’ve consumed by just drinking water every minute. It’s tough to remember but try.Keep water handy at all times. I bring my water bottle with me everywhere I go. Yes, you’ll go to the bathroom a lot but you’re taking care of your vital organs.

When you are enjoying a night out, alternate water with alcohol. Ok, I admit I don’t do this very often but it makes complete sense. Plus you’ll save a lot of money!