Running and Drinking Water

by Samrat
(Hyderabad)

Can we run after drinking 2 liters of water in the morning?

Answer by Dominique:
Hi there,
Thanks for your question about running and drinking water.

I'll cover off on two things:

1. Risks and benefits of drinking two litres of water before your run
2. An alternative to drinking so much water

Risks and Benefits of Drinking Two Litres of Water Before Your Run

Drinking two litres of water in the morning is a healthy habit that can help keep your body hydrated throughout the day. However, whether or not you can run after drinking two litres of water depends on your individual body and how you feel after drinking that amount of water.

Feel bloated, uncomfortable or have to use the bathroom frequently after drinking two litres of water? Then it may not be advisable to run immediately after drinking.

It is generally recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after drinking a large amount of water before engaging in exercise or running to give your body time to digest the water and avoid discomfort.

The most serious risk you run if you put a lot of water in your system in a short amount of time, is that you can cause stitches during the run and generally feel very uncomfortable.

An Alternative to Drinking So Much Water

In a warm climate or going on a longer run? Then your better option, in my opinion, is to take in water gradually. On a warm day or before a very long run I normally drink a cup or two of water before I run, then every 15 - 30 minutes after that I drink a few sips of water from a water bottle or fuel belt. This way, you get your water into you gradually, rather than in one big hit. A simply way to avoid the negatives of feeling bloated and uncomfortable.

Clearly, if you feel comfortable and your body can handle the amount of water without any discomfort, then it may be safe to run after drinking two litres of water in the morning.

Ultimately, it's important to listen to your body and adjust your exercise routine accordingly to avoid any potential discomfort or health risks.

Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique