Hydrating Tips for Runners
Jennifer Heiner combines a passion for running with her business skills as retail director for a New Jersey running company. Managing the company’s four retail locations, she helps control inventory, interview new employees, and ensure day-to-day operations run as smoothly as possible. Jennifer Heiner also provides coaching services and assists with the five races her company hosts each year. Outside of work, Ms. Heiner stays active in her local running community. She maintains membership in New York Road Runners as well as USA Track & Field. As part of her activities with these and other organizations, she has participated in and organized group runs, including training events to prepare participants for the New York City Marathon.
Now that races are resuming post pandemic, and everyone is training for all of those fall marathons, it will be tough for many runners to get back into a good routine, especially in the hot summer months. Jennifer Heiner recommends several things to stay safe and hydrated during those hazy, hot, and humid days.
- Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day — before, during and after your run.
- Run early in the morning or later in the afternoon, to avoid the peak heat or humidity conditions.
- Carry a handheld bottle or hydration vest to ensure you have fluids with you during the run — water is good, and many companies make electrolyte tablets you can add to water that boost hydration during the summer.
- If you start to feel unwell during a run, its ok to cut it short. Its better to play it safe than push it and send yourself into heat exhaustion.
