One of my big learnings since I started getting serious about my running is that it is not just about training, it’s also about what you put in your body. You can do all the training in the world, but if you don’t also focus on your hydration and nutrition you won’t achieve your full potential as an athlete.
As such, I try to keep what I put into my body as natural as possible, even when I am running. No one wants to get cramps or an upset tummy on their run, and while you have to find what works for you, I have the belief, the more natural the better.
For the past few months I have been experimenting with hydration on my long runs. I have found a recipe that works for me and tastes pretty good too! I was inspired by an article my coach, Laurie, from House of Running wrote (https://houseofrunning.com/natural-homemade-sports-drink-recipe-for-runners/).
My recipe is:
1/2 Lemon, juiced
1/2 Lime, juiced
2 tsp Honey*
1 tsp Himalayan salt
250ml (8.45oz) Coconut water (make sure it is 100% coconut water)
Please note, although many of my friends use this recipe and love it, everyones body reacts differently, so I would strongly recommend trying this on a training run first and not on a race. Better to be safe than sorry!
* Since I took this photo I have upgraded my honey to 100% pure organic honey thanks to an amazing friend Hans, who gets it directly from the hive.