Preventing Dehydration While Swimming

Many people opt to swim, rather than to do other exercises, for a variety of reasons. One of the big reasons people swim is to remain cool as they work out. This is an obvious plus to those who don't like battling the weather to get a good workout in, but it can also pose some dangers, such as dehydration. Many swimmers and athletes do not recognize it, but your body loses a significant amount of water and fluids when you exercise in the pool. Most pool water can be anywhere from 75-78 degrees, and it feels cool with relation to the temperature outside of the water (normally much warmer). This makes it incredibly easy to forget to remain hydrated during your workout, and it can lead to serious consequences.

So how do you go about remaining hydrated during your workout? Here are just a few tips regarding staying on top of your hydration level whenever you are in the pool.

First, bring a water bottle to poolside. This is by far the most important and the easiest way to remain hydrated at the pool. What you fill your water bottle with is totally up to you. For those who prefer drinking water during their workouts, water will work just fine.

As a summer swim coach myself, one of the mixes I recommend to my swimmers consists of mixing together two substances. Grab an ice cold bottle of Gatorade and pour half of it into your water bottle, and fill the remainder of the bottle with water. You will notice an immediate, significant difference in the quality of your workout.

Why, you ask? The Gatorade, if taken alone, can do more harm than good: though it replenishes your body and rehydrates you, the sugars can drain you and take away from a quality workout. Mix half and half of each, and you get a great drink that is not overly sugary. Plus, the electrolytes will help your body refuel better than just drinking water alone.

After your swim (and before you leave the pool), be sure to grab a big swig of water at the water fountain. This is important, as you could start feeling bad as soon as you get in your car to leave the workout facility. Assess how you feel: do you feel overly thirsty? Many people who feel overly thirsty after a workout are dehydrated.

All in all, stay hydrated when you hit the water! It is easy just through taking a few simple precautions.