Why You Need to Drink Water Between Eggnogs

The festive season brings with it family gatherings, delicious meals, and maybe a cheeky glass or two of holiday cheer. But while you’re indulging in all the season’s delights, it’s easy to overlook one critical piece of the recovery puzzle: hydration. Staying hydrated isn’t just about quenching thirst—it’s essential for recovery, performance, and surviving those extra holiday indulgences.

Here’s why you should prioritise hydration this festive season and how to stay on top of it without sacrificing the fun.

Why Hydration is Crucial for CrossFitters (and Everyone Else)

Hydration is the unsung hero of athletic performance and recovery. Here’s what it does:

• Supports Recovery: Hydrated muscles recover faster, reducing soreness and stiffness after those brutal WODs.

• Enhances Performance: Even mild dehydration can affect strength, endurance, and focus during workouts.

• Regulates Digestion: Overindulged at Christmas lunch? Water helps process that food and avoid bloating.

• Balances Alcohol Intake: Alcohol dehydrates you, so staying hydrated offsets some of its effects.

How to Stay Hydrated During the Festive Season

1. Start Your Day Right

Hydration begins the moment you wake up:

• Drink a large glass of water before your morning coffee.

• Add a squeeze of lemon for flavour and a little vitamin C boost.

2. Use the “1-for-1 Rule” with Alcohol

Holiday parties often involve alcohol, which dehydrates your body:

• Alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of water.

• This not only helps you stay hydrated but also slows your pace and reduces next-day regrets.

3. Keep a Water Bottle Handy

Out of sight, out of mind—so make hydration easy:

• Carry a refillable water bottle everywhere, from the gym to family gatherings.

• Opt for one with measurement markings to track your intake throughout the day.

4. Add Electrolytes When Needed

When you’re sweating through a workout or dancing at a party, you lose more than water:

• Use electrolyte tablets or powders to replenish sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

• Choose low-sugar options to avoid unnecessary calories.

5. Eat Your Water

Not all hydration has to come from drinks:

• Snack on water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and celery.

• Soups and broths are also great options for staying hydrated in cooler weather.

The Holiday Hydration Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re staying hydrated through all the festivities:

☑ Drink 2-3 liters of water daily (more if you’re working out on a hot humid Brizzy day).
☑ Add a pinch of salt to your water to boost hydration when you’re sweating a lot.
☑ Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they act as diuretics and dehydrate you.
☑ Check your pee: Light yellow is good; dark yellow means you need more water.

Hydration Hacks for Recovery

If you’ve overdone it at a holiday feast (or party), try these recovery hydration tips:

• Hydrate Before Bed: Drink a large glass of water before you sleep to counteract any alcohol or salty food.

• Morning After Recovery: Start the day with coconut water or an electrolyte drink to rehydrate and replenish minerals.

• Go for a Sweat Session: Light exercise and plenty of water can help your body process indulgences faster.

Why Hydration Matters More in CrossFit

As a CrossFit athlete, hydration impacts your performance and recovery directly. Dehydrated muscles fatigue faster, increasing your risk of injury, and dehydration can lead to cramping during long WODs or strength sessions. Staying hydrated ensures you can crush your workouts—even between holiday feasts.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are about balance, and hydration is a simple but powerful tool to keep you feeling great while enjoying the season. So before you reach for that second eggnog, remember to grab a glass of water, too.

Drink up, recover well, and celebrate the season without skipping a beat! 💧🎄