Hi there - I was just wondering if anyone has any views on the usefulness of the Platypus handsfree?
Is it worth it buying or is it just a bit of a nuisance to have on your back while running?
I can't go running without taking water with me and I wonder if this is a good alternative to carrying a bottle?
Thanks,
ShootingStar

Hi

For a while I used a Camelbak thing which went around the waist and had a big, big curly straw sticking out of it. That worked pretty well, especially if you don't like holding something in your hand the whole time. it probably takes a little getting used to running with a bag on your back, but it could be good

I've not seen or heard of said platypus... but I assume it's some kind of hydration back-pack type thing?

I've got a camelback flashflo sitting in my wardrobe that I simply don't use. I used it probably twice but just didn't get on with it. I reckon something that strapped to my back (rather than waist) would be more comfortable, but in all honesty I'd probably end up just carrying a bottle instead and swapping hands from time to time, lol.

__________________
www.richardsimkiss.co.uk - Glooston 10k report added

Why can't you go running without taking water with you?
How far are you running?
How long are you running for?
How much do you drink whilst running?

__________________
ONLY THOSE WHO WILL RISK GOING TOO FAR CAN POSSIBLY FIND OUT HOW FAR THEY CAN GO.

How about just filing a water bottle with water and hiding it somewhere en route the day before?

I think the platypus type things are popular with mountain bikers who dont want a mud splattererd bottle top

Personally, I would hate something on my back

__________________
Running Blog | Triathlon Blog

I'm with you Ped, I never take a drink with me when running! Good swig of water beforehand sees me O.K.

There's been a lot of hype regarding hydration/re-hydration, resulting in a lot of people being erm, scared (?) to go for even the shortest of runs without taking a drink with them. In all but the most extreme of circumstances (very hot weather; very long runs etc), this extra baggage is just not necessary... And in some instances can actually be detrimental to a run.........

__________________
ONLY THOSE WHO WILL RISK GOING TOO FAR CAN POSSIBLY FIND OUT HOW FAR THEY CAN GO.

Why not try one of those beer dispensing hats? Only with water... or beer if you feel like it.

I've never taken water with me on a run. I usually drink a pint before I leave for my run, and that's usually sufficient. I think that at least up to 13 miles it is unnecessary t take water as long as you load up beforehand. There should be no risk of serious dehydration. I once ran 14 miles, and the last mile I did feel my mouth was a little too dry, but I certainly wasn't dehydrating to a risky level. And I do tend to sweat a lot when I run. I think people do worry unnecessarily about dehydration. Unless it is really warm out, you should be able to run for up to 2 hours without taking any water on route, but you do need to drink plenty of water before your run. Just my opinion.

Thanks so much for all your advice everyone - very helpful.

I don't take water with me because i feel like i'm about to keel over with dehydration and I certainly don't worry about it, I simply get thirsty whenever i'm doing any sort of exersise and i'm just in the habit of always having water with me.
Pedestrian - I run about 7-10k generally and i usually just take 50cl bottle with me which does me fine.