Tips For Fueling In Cooler Temps
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Why Hydrate?
Everyone knows maintaining hydration is critical during the hot months of summer, but it is equally important to hydrate as the temperatures drop. Dehydration can cause muscle cramps, nausea, headaches, dizziness, confusion, weakness, inability to concentrate, and decreased performance. Colder temps have their own set of hydration challenges that come with the season; recognizing them allows you to take steps to stay ahead of dehydration.
The Challenges
- When it’s colder out, we often don’t feel thirsty or hungry – and as recognizing thirst becomes more difficult, the risk of dehydration increases.
- Air during the cooler months is generally much drier than during the summer, and exercising in cold conditions increases water loss via respiration since the body is forced to warm and humidify the cold dry air breathed in.
- Frozen bottles, bladders, and hydration tubes prevent adequate, regular hydration.
- Clothing used to stay warm during winter exercise can also affect the body’s ability to recognize the onset of dehydration. In winter, we tend to wear moisture-wicking base layers, but this can fool you into thinking that you’re not sweaty and do not need to rehydrate.
The Solutions
- Prior to your adventure drink Rapid Hydration instead of plain water. Not only is the great taste more incentive to keep consuming regularly, but the electrolytes make sure you are maximizing your hydration before your activity or just as a regular practice.
- Start your winter exercises fully hydrated. You can also preload with a few sips of Tailwind Endurance Fuel to help top off glycogen stores, so you’re warm and energized heading out into the elements.
- Invest in an insulated bottle or hydration tube to ensure your hydration system is accessible and easy to use, even with gloves on.
- Don’t forget what you already know! Consume 20-24 oz of water with 200 calories (of Endurance Fuel!) an hour in winter or summer and you’ll stay hydrated and energized.
The Bottom Line
It’s crucial to be vigilant about hydrating during colder training months since the weather can fool you into a state of dehydration. By training with Tailwind, you are mitigating the risk and keeping yourself fueled and hydrated as we transition into even colder months. Stay hydrated and have a great time, even when things get a little chillier out!
