newbie with a question about running with water

TexasSmith

I was a distance runner in HS but really haven't run since then, so I've basically started over with getting in shape. I am running my first 5K in 10 years next weekend, and am also running a 10K in July (with some more 5Ks between now and then, I'm sure). I ran 3.7 miles yesterday and it got me wondering...at what distance do you start carrying water with you? And how do you do it? Water bottle with a handle, one of those backpack things, something else? I am clueless...help!

gt7301b

In the really hot days in the summer I take water with me on most runs (90+ temps).  For long runs (in cooler temps), probably at the 6-8 mile point.  I have belt and hand held, but I like the hand held water bottle better. (the belt seems to sit right above my bladder)

JenniferJaneC

I carry water at every distance, but I know I am an exception in that respect.  I like to have water with me.

I use a Nathan's handheld bottle.  It is very comfortable, and it has a little pouch that I can keep a key or a few dollars or a GU in. 

Susie Derkins

I use a handheld Nathan bottle.  Camelbaks bounce, so I don't like them on my back.

The distance that I start carrying them depends on the temperature.  Maybe 5-6 miles, give or take. 

shorty20

For me it depends more on the weather than the distance, and just how thirsty I am in general that day. 

If its really hot out, I'll carry it on as little as a 3 mile run.  In the winter though, I wouldn't need it for a 3 mile run.

I have a handheld bottle that I use for shorter distances.  For half marathon distance, I have a 2 bottle Nathan Speed 2 Fuel belt that I use.  For my full marathons I wear a four bottle belt.  I like having my own water with me, it's kind of like a security blanket.

gumiberg

i hate carrying water.  for long runs, my running friends stash coolers of ice water along our routes - i love them for this.   on my own, i tend not to carry water and drink electrolytes before and after.  if i am doing something like speedwork, i just put my water bottle down and do loops.  same thing with trail running - i often stash a water bottle in bush.

i have a Nathans handheld bottle. its OK but i dont really like carrying it. 

taratru

I loathe carrying water.  So I'll go out the night before or the morning of a long run and put water out - just bottled water in the bushes somewhere.  I only do this on runs longer than 15 miles.  If it's hot, I just make sure I'm really hydrated for anything less than that.

BlueLikeJazz

I have a nathan hand held that I use.  If I'm going to need a key or $, I will take it with me no matter what.  Otherwise, I'll take it always if it's above about 75, or if I'm running more than 5 miles (I'm a wuss and like to have water with me).

Kaley28

I'm more of a fuel belt person. It does depend on the weather, but usually I only take it for 5+ miles.

JoBell123

Non-race runs - I always carry water.  If it's under 6 miles I'll bring a hand-held bottle, but if it's over 6m I use my Nathan 2-bottle belt and take Sports Beans.

Races - if it's a 5m or less, I don't carry anything and rely on water stations.  If it's over 5m, I wear my belt so I can hydrate when needed and not just on the planned water stops.

C.squared

I always run with water.  Unfortunately I think it's become somewhat of a security blanket for me and I tend to not have a good run without it even if I'm adequately hydrated.  I use a fuel belt and usually carry 2 bottles (just more even that way).  My belt can hold up to 4, but I've only ever used 3 and that's form 10 miles or more.  I also wear it for races since I'm used to it and don't like to have to rely on the water stops.  

kat.in.the.hat

K - you know how it is down here!  As soon as it hits March and I'm doing more than 3 miles, I carry water.  I have two handhelds and I think they're "meh."  I like my waist belt with the little flasks a lot better.  I have a three bottle one from Amphipod and am really happy with it.

Unfortunately, I think it's mostly trying out a few difference products and seeing what works best for you.