The heat of the summer provides an easy reminder of the importance of drinking up – we sweat easily and will quickly grab a beverage to not only replace what we perceive to be losing in sweat but also to help cool off. However, with much of the country now in the middle of a deep freeze, it can be easy to lose sight of the importance of staying well-hydrated. In fact, I’ve been struck by the number of people I’ve observed in the gym lately who are working out sans water bottle!
Staying properly hydrated should be a priority every day, regardless of the season. In the winter, while you may not be contending with soaring temps, you are dealing with dry air – both outdoors and indoors – forcing your body to work hard to humidify the air you breathe, while your skin is zapped of it’s natural moisture.
Dehydration can lead to both brain fog, muscle cramps and fatigue. Additionally, during winter months it can accelerate the risk of hypothermia and frostbite when exercising outside. So while you may not want to carry a water bottle with you during these winter months, look for opportunities to keep your fluids up throughout the day.
For me, I find keeping a water bottle or glass filled on my desk helps, as does eating my fluids in the form of soups in addition to keeping up my fruits and veggies intake. In the evenings, I’ve made grabbing a big mug of non-caffeinated tea part of my daily wind-down. And, I’ve always got water with me when I head to the gym or yoga class. For longer runs, when carrying water in the frigid air seems unthinkable, my husband J has been nice enough to come out and meet me with water – but I also know many runners who will stash a bottle in advance along their route.
Do you pay as close attention to your hydration during the winter?
