Drinking on long runs? (Read 2045 times)

I hate to carry fluids when I run. I usually do a loop run and hide fluids in the bushes or in my car. That is just my preference though. I know many runners use the camelbacks or fuel belts.

I'm training for my first marathon in June (San Diego). My girlfriend and I have done three long runs without much difficutly (6, 7 and 5 miles). This week we have a long run of 9 and 10 the following week. We were wondering what other people do to stay hydrated on long runs. We're not sure if we should carry water bottles, not drink anything, or possibly hide them along our route. Any suggestions? Thanks for your input. Quinn

On long runs I really like to take along a fifth of tequilla and take a swig at every mile. I find it keeps me well hydrated and makes the run a ton of fun. Then when you finish the bottle because the miles seem to get closer and closer, you can just toss the bottle on the side of the road so you don't have to carry it home. OK on a serious note though, Whenever I do any run of 10 miles or more I will bring along some Gatorade. Anything under that, even if it's only 3 miles, I still bring my water bottle with me. Anything 15 miles and over is when I start to bring things to eat such as gels, sport beans (one of my favs) pretzels, etc. Also as the weather gets warmer and my runs get in the 15+ mile range, I will wear my Camelbak which holds 70 ounces of water and I just make sure I bring along extra gels and stuff to eat for electrolytes.

I know I was disappointed when I opened the thread. Alcohol does fit better with the 'Beer Mile' than long runs though.

Figbash is right, the only way to tell how much water your body is losing during runs is to weigh yourself before and after the run, and assuming you only lost it through perspiration (not potty breaks) that will tell you how much you need to replace. More than 3% bodyweight is certainly at the point where you should be hydrating more. FWIW, any dehydration will affect your muscles, blood, etc. Do you want your heart working to pump blood that is getting thicker and thicker all the time? In hot weather don't forget electrolyte replacement. I always carry some Endurolyte capsules on runs over a couple hours in the summertime, that's all I need with water. Some people like sport drinks that have the right electrolyte balance... Most people will lose about 8 oz every 15 to 20 minutes while running. It depends on the individual, though. For most folks, one should assume 8 oz every 15 minutes, unless you know better. Anytime the temperature is in the 60s or above, I lose about a quart an hour. Just another note - you don't want to get to the 20 mile point in the marathon with your body dehydrated.

I don't bring anything anymore for 18 or less, weather-dependent. If I do bring something, I have a waist pack Camelback that works nicely.

Would love to see you attempt 18mi in Texas in August. Come on down and give it a whirl, I promise not to stand over you and laugh when you black out at mi 12

Would love to see you attempt 18mi in Texas in August. Come on down and give it a whirl, I promise not to stand over you and laugh when you black out at mi 12

I've done that, in fact I've done as much as 22 in Texas summers w/o water ( I ran in the early AM, but still really hot and humid) As for the original question I don't like to carry things with me when I run, but if it is going to be a hot day I'll run past a park that has a water fountain. Stashing bottles along the route is a good idea as well although I've never done it I know several people who have.

Would love to see you attempt 18mi in Texas in August. Come on down and give it a whirl, I promise not to stand over you and laugh when you black out at mi 12

What's the point of this comment?

I have a Camelback waist pack that I use on my long runs- but on short ones I do not. However, with the weather getting warmer I might bring something along if the heat gets too bad. Otherwise no drinking on shorter runs. I did 8 miles the other day and actually brought my Camel back because it was warm(er) outside and I am so glad that I did quite honestly.