Half the battle is just making it to the gym, but now that you’re there, why not make the most of it? Put down your iPhone, let go of distractions, and fuel up with these hydrating musts.
1. Water: It’s imperative to drink water while exercising. Not only do you need to replenish the fluids lost from sweating, but it’s crucial for keeping up your energy level. When you don’t fuel your workout with fluids, your blood volume and its oxygen carrying capabilities decrease and as a result you’re likely to feel tired – or worse, nauseous.
2. Sweat-Wicking Clothes: Help minimize water loss by wearing workout clothes made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics (think synthetic materials like polyester and microfiber-based fabrics). These will help keep sweat away from your skin, allowing you to stay dry (or drier than you would otherwise) for added comfort during full-throttle workouts. Do what you can to avoid anything that’s 100% cotton.
4. Snack Smart: It’s not only about the water you get from the fluids you drink, but also the water you get from the foods you eat. Fuel up with water rich foods, which tend to not only be light (i.e. perfect for warmer weather) but nutrient dense. Among the ones to consider are watermelon, cucumbers, jicama, and radishes, but just about any fruit and vegetable – all of which are primarily made of water – will work. As an added bonus, the water that comes from these foods is surrounded by molecules that help it get into cells more readily.
5. Hydrating Acne Products: Sweat is one of the most common acne triggers and many gym-goers forgo pushing themselves physically out of fear of breaking out. Stock up on oil-free moisture-boosting acne products and an exfoliator (or an exfoliating beauty gadget) to exfoliate the top layer of your skin so you can rest easy and focus on your workout.
6. Hydrating Body Mist: If showering immeditaly post workout is not an option, reach for a hydrating body mist formulated with salicylic acid. This will not only help cool you down, but will help fight acne-causing bacteria; plus a spray allows you to reach those hard-to-reach acne-prone areas, like your back.
Images: WENN
