Welcome, fellow fitness enthusiasts! As we all know, hydration is a crucial part of any workout routine. It keeps us energized, helps us recover faster, and keeps our bodies functioning properly. But with so much conflicting information out there, it can be tough to know how to stay properly hydrated. That’s why we’ve created this guide to hydration hacks – jam-packed with tips and tricks to keep you hydrated during and after exercise! 🏋️‍♀️

Drink Water – But Not Too Much! 💧

It’s no secret that water is vital to hydrate your body. However, it’s important to strike the right balance – drink enough to prevent dehydration, but not so much that you overhydrate and dilute the electrolytes in your body.

A good rule of thumb is to drink a cup of water (or 8 oz.) for every 15-20 minutes of exercise. However, if you’re exercising for an extended period (over an hour), you may want to replenish your electrolytes with a sports drink or coconut water.

A person drinking water after a workout

Check Your Pee Color 🚽

Your pee color is a great indicator of your hydration status. If it’s clear or light yellow, you’re likely well-hydrated. If it’s dark or concentrated, it’s a sign that you need to drink more water (or electrolyte-rich beverage).

Be mindful, though – some vitamins and supplements can turn your pee bright yellow or orange. Keep an eye on your overall hydration level and use your best judgement if you’re unsure.

A chart with different colors of pee and their corresponding levels of hydration

Eat Your Water 🍉

Did you know that certain fruits and veggies are over 90% water? Incorporating high-water content foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges into your diet can help keep you hydrated and energized.

Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and nutrients that can aid your workout recovery. A win-win situation!

A person snacking on watermelon after a workout

Plan and Prepare 📝

Planning and preparing for your workouts can help you stay sufficiently hydrated. For instance, if you’re going on a long hike, pack enough water (and snacks) to sustain you. If you’re doing an intense gym session, bring a sports drink or coconut water to help replenish your electrolyte levels.

Additionally, make sure to hydrate before and after your workout to help prevent injury and muscle soreness.

A person organizing their gym bag with water and snacks for a workout

Listen to Your Body 🙌

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, listen to your body. Everyone’s hydration needs differ based on their fitness levels, activity levels, and even their diet.

If you’re feeling thirsty or fatigued during a workout, don’t hesitate to take a break and hydrate. Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your hydration as needed.

A person taking a break during a workout to drink water

We hope these hydration hacks help keep your workouts energized and effective! Remember to experiment and find out what works best for you, and don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about any aspect of your hydration.

A happy cartoon character with water bottles, fruits, and vegetables around them