
One thing many swimmers seem to forget when dealing with competitive swimming is how important it is to remain properly hydrated. After all, you’re spending time in the water so how could you possibly get dehydrated? Unfortunately, this can be a serious problem if you still aren’t drinking enough water. Simply being immersed in water isn’t enough, particularly because you are still sweating; you just don’t notice it in the water. As you consider the other competitive swimming products you need, don’t forget to add custom team water bottles to the list so you can enjoy the following benefits.
A Well Balanced Body
Your body is made up primarily of water, which means every system requires enough water in order to function properly, including your muscles and nerves. Drinking enough water ensures you can swim your best and don’t have to worry about any of the negative side effects of dehydration, such as headaches, fatigue and others. When you’re able to stay properly hydrated, you will find you swim much better in the end.
Makes Breathing Easier
Were you aware your level of hydration has an effect on your ability to breathe? One of the important basic elements of competitive swimming is proper breathing techniques. If you can’t breathe easily, you won’t be giving your body the oxygen it needs to function correctly. This can have a dramatic impact on your overall swim times and hurt your performance. As long as your taking in enough water, however, you can rest assured your breathing will keep up with your body’s needs.
Improved Cognitive Ability
Whether consciously or not, you are constantly thinking when you’re swimming. You need to think about your swimming technique, as well as make calculations and adjustments along the way in order to improve your performance on the fly. Studies have shown not being hydrated enough can impair the way your brain functions. Unfortunately, because much of the thinking involved with competitive thinking often becomes subconscious, you may not even notice your performance is suffering and your times are increasing.
How Much Is Enough?
Now that you’re aware of the importance of staying hydrated while you swim and why you should have custom team water bottles on hand at all times, you need to know how much you should be drinking. Because you’re less likely to feel thirsty, you’ll need to consciously think about it. It’s recommended to drink about 16 ounces of water prior to practice or a meet, as well as 8 ounces about every 20 minutes. Always be sure to drink plenty when you’re done as well to help aid in your body’s recovery.
If you’re looking for custom team water bottles, contact us. We carry everything you need for your whole team.