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The Importance of Hydration
Activity on the trail can result in dehydration without proper hydration. Drinking water can help to keep you cool and comfortable.
Benefits of Hydration
- Water keeps your body cool. Your body releases heat by expanding blood vessels close to the skin’s surface, resulting more blood flow and additional heat dissipated into the air.
- Water keeps your throat and lips moist and prevents your mouth from feeling dry.
- Water helps to lubricate muscles and joints. When you are well hydrated, the water inside and outside the cells of contracting muscles provides adequate nutrients and removes waste efficiently so you perform better.
Signs of Dehydration
- Low urine volume or very dark urine.
- Dry skin that does not bounce back when pinched.
- Rapid heartbeat and breathing.
- Confusion, dizziness or lightheadedness.
Tips and Tricks to Stay Hydrated on the Trail
- Carry a reusable water bottle with you.
- Do not wait until you are thirsty, take a drink frequently during exercise.
- Drink before, during, and after exercise.