Hydration Hacks: Unconventional Ways to Keep Hydrated During Your Workouts
Hydration when going to the gym is as important as wearing sneaker shoes, but let's get real here, chugging down water from an old plastic bottle can be just a tad little dull, right? If one is tired of the regular hydration process, it's time certain unconventional methods of hydration come on board that quench thirst but bring a level of excitement during journeys of fitness. Whether one be a weekend warrior or a seasoned athlete, here are suggestions that keep one refreshed and ready to ace those workouts.
- Add Some Zing to Your H2O: Powerful Infusions
Plain water will do, but why not add some sizzle? One of the easy and effective ways to make hydration a bit more exciting is infused water. Adding fruits, herbs, and even veggies to your water really does create a flavor explosion that keeps you reaching for more.
Citrus & Mint: Add slices of lemon, lime, and orange with a few sprigs of fresh mint. The tanginess of the citrus combined with the coolness of mint makes it perfect for hot workouts.
The cucumber and basil are like a day at the spa: combining slices of cucumber and fresh leaves of basil, one gets rehydrated and reduces bloating. This is quite suitable after one has had a hard workout session.
Watermelon & Rosemary: Sweet and juicy watermelon with aromatic rosemary offers a delightful twist that is refreshing but satisfyingly different.
- Coconut Water: Natures Sports Drink
It is highly in the limelight and popular these days as a sweetened sports drink alternative. Rich in natural electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium, coconut water is an excellent substitute for artificial beverages. Further, it is low in calories and does not contain any added sugars, and it's better at hydration than normal water.
Pro Tip: Opt for plain, unflavored coconut water with no added sugars. Enjoy it chilled after an awesome hard workout to easily replace lost electrolytes and get a welcome natural energy boost.
- Hydration Gummies: Engaging, Effective
Who says hydration needs to be bland? Hydration gummies are the new, mouthwatering way to stay hydrated throughout one's workout. Small and chewy, these little gummies contain a heavy dose of electrolytes and vitamins, making them the go-to for busy, active athletes on-the-go.
DIY Hydration Gummies: You could even make them yourself! Mix gelatin with coconut water, a splash of fruit juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour into mold, let set, and voilà, your very own homemade hydration treats!
- Salt Tablets: Small but Mighty
During long and/or heavy exercises, especially in high temperatures, the body loses sodium through its sweating. Low levels of this mineral can result in muscle cramps, fatigue, and-in extreme situations-develop into hyponatremia, which is a dangerous lowering of blood sodium levels. Salt tablets are also a practical way to maintain sodium without having to drink lots of water.
• Usage: Take a salt tablet with water before, or during, a workout. If you are a heavy sweater or training in an extreme temperature, this can be especially helpful. Always take as directed for no excessive intake of sodium.
- Aloe Vera Juice: Hydrating with Healing Touch
Aloe vera is not just for sunburns; it's a hydration powerhouse. Aloe vera juice is one serious dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants-well indicated after a session in the gym. It is recognized by its cooling anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive system, further helping your body recover after strenuous exercise.
One can add aloe vera juice to coconut water or lemon-infused water to make it refreshing and ideal to drink during workouts.
- Chia Seeds: The Tiny Hydration Champions
Although tiny in size, chia seeds have the capacity to hold impressive amounts of water. These small seeds can absorb about twelve times their weight in water. These tiny seeds create a gel-like consistency after some time and can keep a person hydrated for hours; hence, this makes them a very great addition to your regular workouts.
Chia Fresca Mix 1-2 tablespoons of chia with water, lemon juice, and a little honey; let it sit for about 10 minutes as the seeds expand, then you can enjoy this refreshing drink before or after your workout.
- Soup: Hydration Beyond the Water Bottle
Who says you should be stuck with liquids? Soups are an excellent source of hydration, especially those brothed, because they fill with water, electrolytes, and other nutrients that would keep them well-hydrated and nourished after or before workouts.
One of the best options for athletes includes bone broth, which is packed full of collagen, amino acids, and minerals. A warm mug of bone broth after exercising can give your body added rehydration and joint health.
- Hydration Apps: Tech-Savvy Thirst Quenchers
In this day and age, there is literally an app for everything, from reminding you to drink water all the way to actually suggesting how much water you should drink on any given day.
Popular Choices: Apps like Waterlogged, MyWater, and Plant Nanny not only help you monitor your intake but also make the process interactive and fun. Some even gamify this experience with virtual plants growing each time you drink a glass of water!
- Frozen Electrolyte Popsicles: The Coolest Way to Hydrate
But when temperatures rise, hydration starts to feel like, well, work. That's when frozen electrolyte popsicles come in and save the day. A fun, frosty way to get through that workout, you can easily whip up a batch and customize flavors and electrolytes with your favorite options.
How-To Mix an electrolyte drink of your choice with a little fruit puree. Berries or mango work great. Freeze it in popsicle molds. Enjoy them before a workout to cool down while hydration is occurring, or afterward as a reward.
- Hydration Reminder Bottles Never Forget to Drink
The smart water bottle would be a great companion for anyone who often forgets to drink water. Hydration reminder bottles are filled with sensors inside that record water intake, send notices when it is time to drink, and glow or make a sound to catch your attention.
Top Recommendations: Brands like HidrateSpark and Thermos produce smart bottles with synchronizations to a mobile device and in real-time hydration monitoring. Besides, they are made so fashionably that hydration becomes stylish.
Hydration Doesn't Have to Be Boring
Hydration is important for maintaining performance and health in general, but it doesn't have to be a chore. What can be so ordinary can be an interesting part of your workout routine with these new hydration ideas. From infused water to chia seed drinks, here are many creative ways to make your hydration regimen even better. So the next time you head to the gym, ditch the plain water and try the following suggestions to help you stay hydrated, energetic, and ready for anything.
