Use a Hydration Belt
A hydration belt is a thin belt that wraps around your waist and holds one or more water bottles. While you're running (or biking), you simply remove the bottle from its holder, take a drink, and then put it back for later. There are many styles out there, so look around for one that works best for you.
More: Which Fluid Hydrates Best: Water or a Sports Drink?
Get Yourself a Water Pack
A water pack is essentially a backpack that you fill with water and wear on your back for the entire run. Each pack has a straw that allows you to sip water when you need it. At the beginning of the run, they obviously weigh more than a water bottle, but as you continue drinking, that weight becomes lighter. Many runners report that the packs are very comfortable and the added weight does not bother them.
More: The Truth About Hydration in the Heat
Add a Little Salt to Your Water
When it's really hot and humid outside, you sweat more—and with that sweat you lose salt. If you are running, especially for over an hour, think about adding just a dash of salt to your water. You don't need to add a lot of salt, but a pinch can help to stave off dehydration. If you use sports drinks, they will have all the salt you need so don't add any to your drink.
More: Summer Running: Take Precautions in the Heat
One last thing to note about hydration: While you need to drink water during your race or training runs, it's just as important to drink 8 oz. of water 30 to 60 minutes before and also in the few days prior to your run. If you start the run dehydrated, it will be almost impossible to make up for that mistake.
If you are a runner, then water is your friend. If you're running in hot weather, then water needs to be your best friend.
More: Summer Runs: How to Acclimate to the Heat
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