Knowing how often you should hydrate on long runs is essential for optimizing your performance and feeling your best. As runners, we are constantly striving to be at our peak, and hydration plays a crucial role in achieving that goal. While it may be tempting to rely on thirst as a cue for drinking water, a more proactive and disciplined approach is necessary to ensure proper hydration during long runs.

It's important to note that hydration needs may vary among individuals. Some runners may naturally sweat more and require more fluids, while others may sweat less and need fewer fluids. However, as humans, we all share a common need for water, as the majority of our bodies are made up of water. When we lose water through sweat during our runs, we need to replenish it to avoid dehydration and its negative effects on performance and health.

So how do we start the hydration process for long runs? In general, it's recommended to hydrate before, during, and after our runs that last longer than 30 minutes. However, it's crucial to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for hydration during long runs. It's essential to adjust your hydration strategy based on your individual needs and the conditions of your runs, such as temperature, humidity, and body size.

Here are some general guidelines to help you establish a solid foundation for your hydration strategy during long runs:

Hydration Before

Just like you wouldn't cram for a test, you shouldn't chug a large amount of fluids right before your run and expect it to work. This can lead to discomfort and bloating during your run, which can negatively impact your performance. Instead, focus on hydrating properly in the days leading up to your run to ensure that you are well-hydrated for peak performance.

According to the Mayo Clinic, which references the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the daily fluid intake recommendation is around 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women. To put it into perspective, this is equivalent to about 8 pint glasses of water a day for men and 6 pint glasses of water a day for women. By incorporating this daily fluid intake into your routine during the week leading up to your long run, you can ensure that you are starting off well-hydrated on the day of your run.

On the day of your run, aim to drink 1 pint glass of water about 2 hours before you start, and then another half of a pint right before you head out the door. This will help you start your run in a well-hydrated state, setting the stage for optimal performance.

Hydration During

Fluid replenishment during your run is crucial to keep your body functioning properly and to prevent dehydration. However, it's important to strike a balance between drinking too much and too little water during your run. Relying solely on thirst as a cue for drinking water may not be reliable, as thirst is often a delayed signal of dehydration.

A general recommendation for fluid consumption during long runs is to aim for 250ml of fluids (equivalent to about 8.5 oz) every 20 minutes. Another helpful tip during your long run is to pay attention to your body's cues. If you start feeling thirsty, don't ignore it. Take a sip of water or sports drink to stay ahead of dehydration. It's also important to listen to your body's signals for other signs of dehydration such as dark urine, dizziness, or fatigue, and respond accordingly.

Hydration After

After your long run, it's crucial to replenish the fluids you've lost through sweat. This is a critical step in your recovery process to ensure that your body can bounce back and be ready for your next run. As a general guideline, aim to drink at least 16-20 ounces (about 500-600 ml) of water or sports drink within 30 minutes of finishing your run. This will help replace the fluids lost during your run and kickstart the rehydration process.

In addition to fluids, it's also important to replenish electrolytes, which are minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium that are lost in sweat. You can do this by consuming sports drinks, electrolyte supplements, or natural sources of electrolytes such as coconut water or bananas.

In conclusion, proper hydration is essential for optimal performance and recovery during long runs. While there is no one-size-fits-all formula, it's important to develop a hydration plan that works best for you based on factors such as your body size, the weather conditions, and your own preferences. Remember to hydrate before, during, and after your long runs, and pay attention to your body's cues for thirst and other signs of dehydration. By being proactive and disciplined in your hydration routine, you can ensure that you are at your best during your runs and set yourself up for success. Stay hydrated and keep running strong!