The #1 Tool for Exercise Recovery
Nothing is more important for exercise and recovery than water.Your body is about 60% water. Water flushes out impurities from your system and when you’re hydrated, Joe Pilates’ internal shower is an instant detox! In addition, water is the primary component of your blood serum, which delivers nutrients to your tissues and cells. Water is key to having moist, vibrant skin and it will help you feel satisfied when you eat a meal. You’ll experience fewer headaches, more regular bowel function, and be less sleepy when you’re well hydrated.
Your daily requirement for fluids varies depending on the climate and your activity level, among other factors. How can you tell if you’re getting enough? The easiest way is to look at the color of your urine. If it’s clear or pale yellow you’re hydrated, if it’s dark yellow you need to drink more. Constipation is another signal that you need more water to help your body eliminate waste. As we get ready for summer activities, it’s important to consider how you will treat your body to the fluids it craves.
First off, please cross sodas off your list. They contain high levels of addictive substances that you don’t need like caffeine, high-fructose corn syrup, and chemical sweeteners that can interfere with your brain activity. Sodas (even diet sodas) have been linked to obesity and Type II Diabetes. Soda is not an effective hydration tool! Please don’t drink soda. Ever…
Since many people are saying “no” to sodas, bottled water is gaining in popularity. The problem with bottled water is that the bottles are a huge source of pollution and an unnecessary use of resources and money. I’m not crazy about the idea of the chemicals in the bottle leaching into my water and even BPA-free plastic bottles are coming under scrutiny. Check out this NPR story and you’ll think twice the next time you grab a plastic water bottle.
Solution: find a glass container that appeals to you (I use a Mason Jar) and try some of these ways to inspire you to drink more healthy, refreshing, pure, clean water….
To cold water add:
- Lemon slices
- Kumquats
- Ice
- Cucumber slices
- Sliced strawberries or pineapple
To warm or hot water add:
- An herbal tea bag
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ginger root
For a special occasion, treat yourself to this recipe for Aguas Frescas. This and other similar fruit drinks, which translate literally as “fresh water,” are served all over Mexico and they’re a cinch to replicate at home. Instead of melon, you can also use strawberries, pineapple, or mango — any fruit that is soft enough to puree. The key is to strain the pulpy fruit to make a clearer liquid.
Ingredients
- 1 large cantaloupe or half a watermelon, seeded and diced (about 3 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- 2 to 3 limes, juiced
Directions:1) In a blender, puree fruit.
2) Pour through a fine sieve to eliminate pulp.3) Mix with water, sugar, and lime juice, to taste.
Enjoy!
Melanie Petri began searching for a practical application for her life-long love of science as a biology major at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo. She began studying to become a Registered Dietitian upon learning that dietetics was a perfect marriage of science and cooking arts and studied exercise physiology as a secondary interest . Continuing her studies, she received a Master’s Degree in nutrition.
Later in life she found her second love, Pilates, and was teacher certified at the Pilates Center in Boulder, Colorado. She has taught in Hermosa Beach for over ten years and continues training at Vintage Pilates in Los Angeles.
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