How long of a run to carry water?

AlsDonkBoxSquat
AlsDonkBoxSquat Posts: 6,128 Member
edited December 18 in Social Groups
At what distance do you decide to start carrying water? My longest run so far was 7 miles and I don't carry water, but I'm starting to have issues rehydrating.

Replies

  • brandyk77
    brandyk77 Posts: 605 Member
    highly dependent on weather conditions. I'll do 16 in the winter sans water. sometimes in the summer, I'll take on water during a 6 miler.
  • lauleipop
    lauleipop Posts: 260 Member
    Depends entirely on the weather for me. In the winter I dont run with water, but my long runs aren't that long (6 or 7 miles). In the summer, I consider water for anything over 5 miles, especially if I'm running during the day (in the sun).

    The biggest thing for me is to go into a run fully hydrated. If I'm slightly dehydrated when I start a run, I really struggle with hydrating after the run.
  • Steve_Runs
    Steve_Runs Posts: 443 Member
    I think i really depends on the person and the conditions. On really hot days, I'll take water on runs over 6 miles. But I have to be honest, I usually do not drink any water on 10K races.
  • mmk137
    mmk137 Posts: 833 Member
    I've only run once with water and that was for a 10k. I found that the only time I took water in, was after the run, so to me it was pointless. but i know that once i increase my distance then it will be an issue.
  • stylistchik
    stylistchik Posts: 1,436 Member
    I never used to carry water because I would do 4 or 5 miles with my dog, drop her off at home, and then run the rest; so I would grab a little water when I stopped home. Then one day I set out for a 12 mile run when it was 85 degrees out and humid. I brought a small bottle of water with me but I only made it 7 miles and I was sick all night. It took me a couple days to realize I was just dehydrated!
    Now if I'm going to be out for more than 45 minutes to an hour (5-6 miles) I bring water. It helps me keep my pace, keep my energy up and I don't have to risk getting sick. I bought a hydration belt that has mini water bottles and a pouch for my phone so it's very convenient and comfortable to run with and I don't have to "carry" anything in my hands.
  • TinaDay1114
    TinaDay1114 Posts: 1,328 Member
    Once I got over 7 miles, I started carrying water. I bonked hard when I didn't have water (and a small snack) when I started doing my 8-12 mile runs. I just bought a Nathan belt w/the 2 hip bottles, and I love it -- doesn't bounce, slosh, or feel like something is "on" me. And I have just enough water to make it for a 12-mile long run with everything I need.
  • Dizzle_65
    Dizzle_65 Posts: 249 Member
    It depends on the individual, the weather conditions and the distance / terrain. I would sugeest try different methods, e.g. Bottles, camelbak etc and see what works for you.

    Two points though:

    If you're feeling the need to hydrate then I would aslo suggest some form of nutrition. This can be anything from a banana to a gel or putting electrolyte in your water.

    Lots of people have made reference to running in the heat and dehydration. You can and do lose a lot of water when running in the cold so do not make the mistake of thinking that you do not need to hydrate in the winter. The biggest pain being if you drink a bit too much, trying to wee at 0 degrees! :embarassed:
  • ebaymommy
    ebaymommy Posts: 1,067 Member
    highly dependent on weather conditions. I'll do 16 in the winter sans water. sometimes in the summer, I'll take on water during a 6 miler.

    Big ditto to that.
  • LorinaLynn
    LorinaLynn Posts: 13,247 Member
    I sweat like mad and get parched easily, so anything over 6 miles. Unless it's really hot, then I might carry something for any distance. For races, though, I just carry grapes since I can run and eat them. I have to slow to a walk to drink.
  • CoachsWife4
    CoachsWife4 Posts: 79 Member
    I live in West Texas - no humidity but it was 104 already two days ago. I bought me a camelPak off the internet (they also have them at Academy) and I LOVE it. I can carry my GU gels, put my phone in it and it keeps me cool, too. ha ha I do think with summer approaching and long run in your future, you do need to make plans. I ran a 10K a few weeks ago and I didn't drink during that but I think it's different as your training...

    Listen to your body.
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