I've been wondering about this for a while now and haven't been able to figure it out yet.
How are long distance swimmers able to hydrate? I can't remember ever seeing anyone do an Ironman swimming leg with a hydration pack or water bottle.
Also, how do you guys hydrate when running longer distances (not during competition with water stations)? I've tried running with a small backpack and with water bottles, but it's not exactly comfy.
As for long distance swimming (like an Ironman): I used to wonder about this same exact issue... I asked around and basically the answer I got was you hydrate like crazy before the race... Drink so much you feel like you have water sloshing around in your stomach. Don't worry about drinking to much because one advantage to swimming is that you don't have to stop to "let go of excess fluid"... if you know what I mean!
As for long training runs, your choice is: take water, or run on a course with water available, or blend the two.
So on my long runs I usually run along a trail that I know has "parks" on it with access to water. I also take a water bottle in a belt. I fill up my water bottle when I pass these water fountains.
Thanks for clearing that up. I might need to get one of those belts, or a proper hydration pack.
When I train for swimming I bring a water bottle and put it at the end of the lane. I've always done that and it does help a lot during training. When I race triathlon I'm not afraid to take in more water before the race because I know I can "let go" as Brad stated. It's much different than lining up for a marathon, or half marathon. Also, as gross as this sounds, I know I take in some water as I swim. I know this because even if I don't drink anything during a workout I always have to "go" afterwards. I don't do it on purpose, but I also don't think I can help it either. Since the swim part of an Ironman only takes about an hour I just make sure that I drink right up to the start and then immediately after I get onto the bike. An hour isn't that long, but you do sweat and lose fluids as you swim. The best advice I've heard is as soon as you get on the bike eat and drink early and often. This is simply from my experience, though!
Fuel belt makes a great hydration belt with little bottles that are located all around the belt (comfy and no bouncing). http://www.fuelbelt.com/index.html
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