Water Retention after a Long Run

by Misty
(Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)




water retention after a long run
I have an odd issue with water retention after a long run or a race, that I don't understand. I have run seven half marathons in the past three years and I have noticed that I bloat up really badly after the race (gain 3-4 lbs of water). Is this a problem? Should I be concerned?

I use gels, and electrolyte replacement drinks during the race and drink lots of water, it also does not matter if it is a cool or hot day, happens to me regardless of weather.

What could be causing this?

It does not happen to me on shorter runs; in fact I lose water and am lighter after a short run. I just ran a half on Sunday and today is Wednesday and I am just finally getting back to normal.

Answer by Dominique:

Thanks for your question regarding water retention after your long runs and races. I have not experienced it personally. However, I have friends who it has happened to. It has always been temporary and not a massive cause of concern. I will walk you through:

1. Reasons you could be experiencing water retention during your running
2. Things to experiment with to avoid water retention


Reasons You Could Be Experiencing Water Retention During Your Running




water retention after running

Here are some alternative explanations for bloating and water retention after a running race:

Dehydration: Although it may seem counterintuitive, dehydration can actually cause water retention in your body. When your body is dehydrated, it holds on to water to maintain hydration levels, which can lead to bloating and water retention.

Electrolyte Imbalance: When you sweat during exercise, you lose electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which are essential for proper fluid balance in your body. If you don't replenish these electrolytes after the race, it can lead to fluid imbalances and bloating.

Inflammation: Intense exercise, like running a race, can cause inflammation in your body. This inflammation can cause fluid to accumulate in tissues, leading to bloating and water retention.

Post-Race Nutrition: What you eat after a race can also contribute to bloating and water retention. If you consume foods that are high in sodium or other inflammatory ingredients, it can cause your body to retain water and lead to bloating.

Hormones: Hormonal changes during menstruation or menopause can also cause bloating and water retention in your body, regardless of exercise. Running a race can exacerbate these hormonal changes, leading to more noticeable bloating and water retention.

Things to Experiment With to Avoid Water Retention




water retention after a long run
To try and avoid water retention and excessive bloating from happening, here are some ideas you can experiment with:

Hydrate properly: Drinking enough water before, during, and after the race is crucial for preventing dehydration, which can lead to water retention. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and more if you are participating in a strenuous activity like a running race.

Limit your salt intake: Consuming too much salt can lead to water retention and bloating. Try to avoid processed foods, which often contain high amounts of sodium, and opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins instead.

Stretch: After the race, be sure to stretch out your muscles to help prevent fluid buildup. Stretching can also help reduce inflammation and soreness. Check out my page on running stretches for more info.

Elevate your legs: Elevating your legs can help reduce swelling and fluid buildup. Lie on your back and prop your legs up on a pillow or cushion.

By the way, this a massive tip for dealing with muscle soreness after a race as well. I try to do it after every race; it really helps with getting rid of some of the toxins. Professional football players swear by it!

Wear compression gear: Compression socks or tights can help improve circulation and prevent fluid buildup in the legs.

Remember, it is not a cause of massive concern to experience some water retention and bloating after a running race, but these tips can help minimize the effects and help you recover faster. If you have concerns about persistent bloating or swelling, you should speak with a healthcare professional.

Hope that helps.
Kind regards,
Dominique

BRT Newsletter





Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Injury Helpline.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. Running a Half Marathon

    I'm 41 years old. I have never run a half marathon. My longest race has been a 10K. I have been running steady for like 4 years, been running for around

    Read more

  2. Running 5k in 25 Minutes - What Do I Do?

    I have been running since I was 10 yrs old... I was in school as well as college basketball and the athletics team.... Now I'm in a training program

    Read more

  3. Running A Sub-40 10k

    I have given myself the target of reducing my 10k time, ideally to sub 40 (and beyond!). My question is how to achieve this? As someone who is quite

    Read more

  4. 2 Miles in 16 Minutes - Is it Possible?

    What are the chances I would be able to run 2 miles in 16 minutes? I am 43 yrs old. I am in decent shape. I can run 2 miles now in 30 minutes. I

    Read more

  5. 1.5 Mile in 13 Minutes, but Out of Shape

    You'd better lace up buddy. There is a lot of work to do for you... My husband is in a lot of trouble. He's slightly out of shape and has gained

    Read more