Every cell, organ, and tissue in your body needs water to function properly. In fact, water makes up around 60 percent of your body weight. Plus, water helps your body work and retain information better, and it transports both nutrients and waste while regulating your body temperature.
When you’re skiing high up on the slopes, it’s critical to remain hydrated at all times. The elevation may slightly disturb your sense of orientation, and the last thing you need is to suffer from early exhaustion due to a lack of hydration. Skiing is also a form of exercise, and even though it’s cold, you’ll sweat if you ski long enough, and you need to replace that lost water. The snow sports pros from ASO Mammoth, the premier spot on the mountain for Mammoth ski rental, gear, and repair service, offer these suggestions for staying hydrated on the slopes.
Drink Up Before You Ski
Prior to skiing downhill, make sure you get your fill of hydration. You want a full tank to start your day on the right foot. And it’s important to drink clean water. Don’t rely on coffee and tea, as these types of drinks can dehydrate your body. Then take a bathroom break before you hit the slopes so you can ski uninterrupted.
Minimize Coffee Intake
Coffee is a diuretic. Since the body contains two-thirds water, you need water to ensure your body functions normally. Caffeine can dehydrate your body by stimulating the need to urinate. Among other things, too much caffeine can also cause diarrhea, which will deplete your body’s water reserves.
Carry a Bottle of Water with You
The good news is ski pants often have multiple pockets for carrying various items. Stick a water bottle in one of your resealable pockets just in case. Then sip from your bottle throughout your day on the slopes.
Set a Reminder to Hydrate
Configure your phone to ring every hour as a reminder to hydrate. The last thing you want is to feel dizzy while on the slopes because you forgot to hydrate.
Say No to Beer
The cold weather and altitude may decrease your desire to drink fluids, which is why it’s vital to set up a reminder as mentioned above. Before you know it, it’s lunchtime and your body feels as if it’s been roaming around in the desert. Now you’re ready to eat and simply want to enjoy a cold one. However, if you plan to continue skiing, it would behoove you to stay away from beer, as it’s a diuretic and may cause you to lose fluids much faster. Until you’re done skiing, stick to water.
As you can see, it’s critical to stay hydrated when on the slopes. With the simple hydration tips above, you can ski at your body’s peak function. After you grab a few bottles of water, stop by ASO Mammoth on your way to the slopes. We can fit you out with the latest gear, give your skis a machine wax, and provide you with the best snowboard, bike, and ski rentals in Mammoth. Drop by or give us a call at 760-965-3444.