One of the main factors for a dramatic drop off in athletic performance is dehydration. Studies have shown that it is important to sip around 6 to 8 ounces of fluid every 20 minutes because of the rapid rate at which we lose fluid from sweat. Can you imagine a 1 hour run, snowshoe, or x-c ski outing with no water? Can you imagine the dehydration and poor recovery one will go through if they refuse to believe the facts? Up until now, staying hydrated has been a problem during long training runs. Some folks have picked courses with access to water along a certain route, but wouldn't it be nice to have your favorite fluid along with you?

Problem solved with Ultimate Direction, Asics and Nike! The Sneaker Store now carries a complete line of hydration systems all the way from a simple hand held Ultimate Direction, to the more common fanny pack style bottle carrier, to a new introduction for a runner; a backpack style or a fanny pack style bladder hydration carrier. Prices are very reasonable starting at under $10.00 to the most elaborate systems selling for $49.99.

All of these options are really quite comfortable to carry along. The amount of fluid to carry along is directly related to the outdoors' temperature as well as how long you are training. An athlete is just as vunerable to dehydration in the winter. All it takes is a little getting used to carrying one of these systems. You'll be more comfortable on your run or walk, you'll have a much less likelihood of heat exhaustion, and you'll recover stronger for tomorrow's workout.