ONE of the most effective ways to improve your health and fitness is by staying hydrated.

Some of my clients have noticed considerable improvements to their own health, energy and sleep because they increased their water intake, so this week I challenge you to try it as well.

Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining optimal bodily functions, from regulating body temperature to aiding in digestion and carrying nutrients throughout the body.

Dehydration can lead to a host of negative effects, including fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, and even dizziness.

For many people, it can be difficult to remember to drink enough water throughout the day. A simple tip to help stay hydrated is to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go.

I personally like to carry a 700ml bottle with me and set myself a goal of drinking two to three times that per day which feels manageable.

This makes it easy to sip water throughout the day and ensures that you always have water on hand when you need it.

Another tip is to infuse your water with fruit or herbs to add flavour and make drinking water more enjoyable.

Some popular combinations include cucumber and mint, lemon and ginger, or strawberry and basil. Not only does this add flavour, but it can also provide additional health benefits from the nutrients found in the fruit and herbs.

However, if that isn’t for you, adding a drop of diluting juice or having flavoured tea can all contribute to being more hydrated as well.

It's important to note that everyone's hydration needs are different and can vary based on factors such as activity level, climate, and overall health.

As a general guideline, aim to drink at least eight glasses (64 ounces) of water per day however like any goal, start of small and aim to have just slightly more than the last time, even aiming for just two extra glasses this week (or 500ml - 1 litre)

If you're engaging in physical activity or spending time in hot weather, you may need to drink more to replenish lost fluids.

By staying hydrated, you can improve your overall health and fitness and prevent dehydration-related symptoms.

So this week, I challenge you to grab your water bottle and start sipping!!

I would also love to answer your questions you might have for me and I will answer one in the following week's article, just get in touch at: robyndrummondfitness@hotmail.com or on social media at ‘Robyn Drummond Fitness’ and I would love to answer these for you.