6/3/20
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MJ's magic "Secret Stuff"

Water: Why You Should Drink It.

Summer is officially here with the warm temperatures we have been having. Hopefully, you’ve been able to enjoy it! (If you haven’t, get your butt outside! Coaches orders!) With all the activities and being in the sun and heat more often, it’s important to stay hydrated. 


Why Is Water So Important?

Water is one of our most precious resources and accounts for up to 60% of our weight. It is essential for our body to the point where we can’t live for more than 3 days without it. Water has a vital role in many bodily functions, including: 

  • The regulation of body temperature
  • The removal of toxins and waste
  • The protection of our spinal cord
  • The cushioning of joints
  • The continuation of blood flow through the body
  • The transportation of nutrients to different parts of the body

Not drinking enough water will impact each of these functions. Even mild levels of dehydration can cause fatigue, mood swings, and affect concentration. Not to mention it takes on your workouts! 

How Much Water Should I Be Drinking?

There are many different recommendations out there: 8 glasses, ½ your bodyweight in ounces, 2 liters, 9-13 cups, the list goes on. 

The standard we have set at the gym is ½ your bodyweight in ounces. We think this is the simplest method and it’s what we recommend to all of our members. 

Along with this method, there are other factors that affect how much you should be drinking as well. 

  • Age: Children need less water, while the elderly need more.
  • Activity level: Whether you’re running a 5K or a marathon, athletes lose more water through perspiration. It’s important to refuel before, during, and after workouts.
  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should increase water consumption.
  • Climate: While you’re soaking up the sun, make sure to replenish your fluids more often.
  • Health: When you’re experiencing symptoms of illness like vomiting or fever, make sure to increase your water to stay hydrated.

Above all, listen to your body! If you feel you’re thirsty, drink up!

I Know Drinking Water is Important, But I Don’t Enjoy the Taste or Forget to Drink it. Recommendations?

It’s very common to forget to drink water. I do it all of the time. Good practice is to carry a large water bottle around with you and leave it in sight and be sure to drink it regularly. I’ve used apps that give me reminders throughout the day to drink and I’ve found it very helpful! 

When it comes to taste, infusing water is a great way to make it more appealing (as well as adding vitamins and minerals). Recipes you can try:

  • Slices of lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit
  • Grapes cut in half
  • Chopped up strawberries
  • Slices of cucumber
  • Herbs such as mint, rosemary, thyme and sage

You can also use flavorings like Crystal Light or Mio to give your water a quick and easy flavor enhancement.

Tips to Drink More Water

These are useful tips for those of us that need to be drinking more water as well as those that may already be having enough but need some help still. Instilling these habits one at time will have you drinking enough water in no time!

  • Drink a glass of water right when you wake up in the morning.
  • Have a glass of water before or during each meal.
  • Drink water before, during, and after exercising.
  • If you feel hungry, have a glass of water before eating.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle with you and sip water throughout the day.
  • Switch one glass of soda or coffee for a glass of water.

Use this information and tips to help stay hydrated, preserve your health, and feel great each day!!! Now go drink some water you filthy animals.  ☺

Coach Matt

Kali Maurer

Coach