Sure, the summer sun is cheerful. It’s the signature of a new day. It’s full of hope and brightness. And it’s also HOT! On days when the low temperature is anything but low and your motivation is as fried as an egg dropped on the sidewalk, you may find it a challenge to keep cool. But other than climbing into the refrigerator, you’ll want to pour yourself a tall glass of water and get to drinking. Because staying hydrated is key.
Not only does your body need proper hydration to survive, but also to thrive. So how do you replace the water your body is sweating out from the moment you step outside? You plan ahead and prepare yourself. Here are four simple tips for staying hydrated while on a walk, or during any form of exercise in the hot, summer months.
- Bring water with you. If you’re holding a set of Jetti Poles, this may be tough, but walking with a Jetti Pack or just out on a stroll, grab your favorite water bottle and carry it with you so you can have it ready to sip on throughout your walk. Many water bottles have a built-in lid handle or carabiner attached to make it easy to loop around your fingers or clip to a belt loop.
- Carry water on your person. Since you’ll need to keep your hands free while walking with Jetti Poles, a hydration belt, which is designed with a pouch for your water bottle, will be a great option. Some may even come with one or two bottles you can fill up before you lace up and go. These belts also often come with a zippered pouch you can use to safely store your keys, phone, ID, or anything else you want to bring along.
- Place water bottles along the route. If you’re a planner, this is a great option as you can set your own water stations along your route. Just fill a few water bottles and tuck them in safe places that you’ll pass by and reward yourself with a refreshing drink when you reach each destination. Just make sure you go back and pick up any water bottles you’ve left behind along the way.
- Make sure you drink enough water BEFORE your walk. Your body doesn’t just need hydration when you’re active. So, make sure you get plenty of water throughout the day to maintain a healthy level of hydration so you’ll be ready when you are heading out for a walk. You don’t want to be starting out in a deficit. (And for another bonus tip, hit the restroom before you leave so you’re not seeking out relief or shortening your walk because you have to “go.”)
Remember, don’t wait until you're thirsty to take a drink. Take sips—not gulps (keep those cramps away)—along the way. And, of course, when you get back from your walk, make sure you rehydrate to replenish your body from everything you just sweated out. That will leave you ready for your next walk and allow you the chance to enjoy all the lasting mental and physical health benefits that come along with it. Lastly, remember that good hydration isn’t just for those hot days. No matter the weather, you’ll want to make sure you drink plenty of water to keep your body feeling its best year-round.