A good playlist is helpful. A towel is convenient. But the one thing you absolutely need when working out is water. Whether you’re pounding the pavement, pumping iron or performing your favorite yoga sequence, when your body is moving and your heart is pumping, you’re going to sweat. As your body loses fluids, it’s crucial to replenish by regularly drinking water. In fact, it’s recommended that you sip water before, during and after workouts to stay properly hydrated.
If toting around a gallon water jug isn’t your style, don’t worry. There are plenty of smaller, reusable bottles that make handy companions in the gym, on the track or wherever exercise takes you. Here are my top picks:
Not too big, not too small, these 20 oz. bottles fit perfectly in your gym bag, purse or the cup holder of your car. Because they’re made of stainless steel, they’re free of bisphenol-A, or BPA, a chemical found in plastic that’s been shown to have harmful effects on health and the environment. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean (you can simply wash with a mixture of vinegar and water, then rinse), and the New Wave Enviro bottles come in a variety of fun colors.
This super-light, BPA-free, 21-oz. bottle will keep your water cold for a long time. It’s specially designed with “double-wall” construction to help keep liquid temperatures where you want them (it’s good for hot beverages, too!). On hot days, add a little ice (the wide-mouth opening makes it easy), and take this bottle with you on the road. One of my favorite things about the Podium Chill is that it’s easy to squeeze, yet it has a spill-proof jet valve that lets me get just the amount of water I want. I can’t tell you how often I’ve found myself wearing my water instead of drinking it with other bottles.
Looking for bottle that’s easy to hold with one hand? This is it. It’s easy to carry, spill proof and extra-durable. Unlike many other bottles that build up condensation when ice is added, this one doesn’t thanks to an insulated double wall. It also features a flexible straw. All you have to do is flip, bite and sip. I’d highly recommend this BPA-free bottle if you’re a runner, biker or spend a lot of time on the treadmill.
CamelBak Groove™ Portable Filtration System
If you’re planning to refill your bottle at a drinking fountain or other public water source, consider the BPA-free CamelBak Groove Portable Filtration System. It includes a filter that lets you turn tap water into great, fresh-tasting water anywhere, at any time. The filter lasts for about three months and is estimated to provide the equivalent of 375 disposable water bottles-worth of drinking water. Think of the savings—not to mention the benefit to the environment! I also like this bottle because it’s extremely durable. In fact, it’s so durable, CamelBak guarantees it for life.
New Wave Enviro Eastar with Handle
Bigger than many other bottles, the New Wave Enviro Eastar holds 2.2 liters—ideal for carrying enough water to fuel those long, brutal workouts. It’s made of a tough, almost glass-like, BPA-free material that really stands up to being lugged around, which is easy to do with the nicely shaped handle. If you’ve got sensitive taste buds, you’ll love that this bottle will never leave a plastic-y aftertaste in your mouth.
Do you have a favorite reusable water bottle? Share it with us in the comments below!