FitSugar

Get in Gear: Camelbak StoAway

FitSugar — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 02:30:00 -0800

Even though it's Winter, if you're getting out and active in the snow you still need to drink water. Since you are already loaded down with gear like poles, a regular water bottle is way too bulky, and plus it might freeze.
That is why this StoAway ($35) by Camelbak is great. The super durable plastic bag inside that holds 70 ounces of water, and the external circular purple cap makes it easy to refill. Since it's so slim, it can fit inside your existing backpack with all your other necessities. The drinking tube allows you to access your water easily, so you're more likely to drink it and stay hydrated. All you do is bite the end and suck out the water just like a straw. The bag, tube and bite valve are all insulated, which prevents your water from turning to ice. The StoAway is not just for Winter; it keep your water cool in the Summer. Sounds like a good deal to me.

Get in Gear: CamelBak FlashFlo

FitSugar — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Running outside is wonderful, but the one drawback is water. I have yet to find a water fountain when I am out trail running. Now, you could wear the Terminator FuelBelt like Fergie Ferg, or you could opt to use the FlashFlo ($40) by CamelBak.

The FlashFlo is a fanny pack designed to hold water that has a built in drinking tube with an easy to use valve. Clip the tube to your shirt and you are good to go. You can easily slip the tubing to either side of the pack so it easy to use if you are right or left handed. The FlashFlo also has a zippered pocket for your keys and a secure outer pocket for your iPod. The fanny pack style is better suited for walking, hiking and trail running than the backpack style hydration units made by CamelBak.

So run those trails carrying 45 ounces of water sitting comfortably on your waist. Buy one directly from CamelBak.

Get in Gear: The Sugar Pack

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 04:00:00 -0800

If you are into doing anything outdoors, you've got to have a Camelbak. It's an easy way to make sure you've always got your water with you.

Sometimes when you're out for the day, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or whatever, it's annoying to have to stop all the time to get your water bottle out of your backpack.

Using the Camelbak keeps your water much more accessible so you are apt to drink as much water as you need.

It's a pack that has a reservoir pouch that holds the water. And there's a little tube that goes from there all the way up to your shoulder. To get the water out, you bite down on the end and suck - it's like a big straw - it's so easy.

But won't my water freeze? Nope. Camelbak makes insulated packs like this one so your water is protected from the cold. It's called the Sugar pack. You know I love that!!!

For $70, it holds 70 oz of water and has extra storage space for important things like snacks, a camera, your cell phone, and extra layers. What a brilliant idea.

Headed to the Mountain? Dealing With Crowded Slopes

FitSugar — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 02:00:00 -0800

Since President's Day is coming up, many of you may be planning a weekend away in the mountains. Three-day weekends are great for skiing and snowboarding, but since everyone else thinks so too, you may be dealing with crowded slopes. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

It's best to bring your own gear since renting can take a long time when there are tons of people. Either bring your own, or you can rent skis, poles, and boots at a gear store before you head out on your trip.
Carpool. If you're going with a bunch of friends, try to pack all of you and your gear into one car. Finding a parking spot at the mountain can be impossible.
Ski at your level. If you're new to skiing or riding, don't attempt a black diamond just yet. Stick to the easier trails with your fellow out of control and slow beginners. It'll help prevent injuring you or some other unsuspecting skier.
Wear a helmet. The more people on the mountain, the more chance for a collision.
Dress warmly. You'll get cold standing around waiting in lines for the lifts, so make sure your head, ears, neck, and hands are bundled up. Hand warmers tucked in your boots and mittens are a great idea.
Pack your own snacks and meals. Not only will it be much cheaper and healthier for you, but you won't waste time waiting to get your food. Bring your own water too. Use a Camelbak water bottle so you can stay hydrated on and off the mountain.

Source

This Should Wake You Up: Caffeine's Not Dehydrating

FitSugar — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 02:30:00 -0700

It seems like "coffee" has a new PR agent. This simple drink, blamed for many illnesses and diseases in the past, is starting to get a healthful reputation.

The latest good news about java - caffeine doesn't promote dehydration. Add to that the fact that caffeine might actually help you exercise longer and you have a double shot of good news.

After reviewing more than a dozen studies, Lawrence Armstrong, of the Human Performance Laboratory, concluded that moderate caffeine consumption (up to about 500 milligrams a day) did not adversely impact exercise. While caffeine is a mild diuretic, meaning it briefly increases urine production, moderate amounts are not enough to interfere with a workout by causing excessive fluid loss. Dehydration is about the balance of fluid intake and fluid loss.

These previous studies also suggest that caffeine may even boost performance during activities lasting longer than 30 minutes by enabling exercisers to work out longer. Although the reasons for this effect are still unclear, but one theory is that caffeine helps the body turn fat into fuel for longer workouts.

This news doesn't not mean you should fill your camelbak or water bottle with an iced latte. If you are sweating you need to pay attention to the amount of fluids you have lost and replace them as needed. This does mean, however, that you can enjoy a cup of joe before your morning workout.

Stay Hydrated With Platypus

FitSugar — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Since we all know how bad disposable water bottles are for the environment (since most of them end up in landfills because they don't get recycled), it's a great idea to use a reusable water bottle. Both Nalgene and SIGG bottles are great, but if your goal is to stay hydrated during some kind of strenuous activity, lugging around a hard bottle can be kind of annoying.

Check out these bottles made by a company called Platypus®. Their water bottles and carriers come in a range of sizes and shapes, and they're all collapsible, "taste-free," lightweight, easy to fill, and rugged enough to handle temperatures from freezing to boiling.

Want to know what else? Then read more

These are similar to Camelbak hydration packs, but more versatile. You can use Platypus bottles on their own or add accessories to them. I love the Neoprene insulted bottle holder to keep liquids hot or cold. You can also get a hands-free drink tube so you can tuck the bottle in any existing pack you're carrying and attach the tube to your shoulder strap.

These are perfect for hiking, biking, and backpacking because once the bottle is empty, it collapses so you can roll it up for easy, compact storage. Plus these are really inexpensive - an 80 oz bottle is only $9.95. You can check out all the Platypus gear at REI.com.