This section of my website used to be dedicated to triathlon training, personal race results and certification reviews, like Turbo Kick. I am expanding it to include more generic health & fitness topics. Also, I talk a lot about "D" -- he's my husband (Dave Liu)!

Tuesday, January 13, 2004

Running & Hydration

USA Track & Field (USATF) has issued new guidelines for hydration. It recommends that athletes use thirst as a guide to tell you when to drink, rather than drinking at every opportunity just to "stay ahead of thirst." This method is supposed to prevent dehydration while also lowering the risk of hyponatremia (low sodium), a condition that occurs when athletes over-hydrate.

USATF has provided a self-testing program for optimal hydration. As an alternative, it advises runners to "begin their races well-hydrated--indicated by clear urine--and then drink when thirsty during their races, rather than drinking constantly as some have recommended. A sports drink with sodium and other electrolytes is preferred."

Which reminds me, I've been lax about running lately. I should pick it up again soon.

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