A good way to learn how much is right for you is to weight yourself before a heavy training session. Then drink and record how much liquid you consume during trainging. Then weight yourself again. If you find that you weight more after training than before, you should cut down on your liquid intake. By performing this exercise, you will learn how much liquid you really need to injest during an event and be able to pace yourself accordingly.

Hyponatremia can begin with confusion and lethargy and can progress rapidly to more severe symptoms. They can include twitching, siezures, stupor, coma and even death.

In recent years, hyponatremia has killed several amateur marathon runners as well as competitors in Marine Corps Marathon.

To learn more about hyponatremia and proper hydration during events, visit http://usatf.org/groups/coaches/library/hydration/

Many individuals are allergic to formaldehyde and know to avoid personal care products that contain formaldehyde releasing preservatives. Keep in mind that many pharmaceuticals including OTC drugs also use these same preservatives so it's not limited to skin care products. For those sensitive to formaldehyde clothing can also be a stong source of irritation.

Each country has its own manufacturing standards for acceptable levels for formaldehyde resins. A low indicator of formaldehyde releasing resin would be 75 ppm which is Japanese standard, US standard is somewhere near 300ppm, quite a difference.

Fabrics safe to wear: 100% silk, 100% linen (if it wrinkles easy), 100% polyester, 100% acrylic, 100% nylon, spandex, flannel (soft), wool (may cause irritation) and denim.

Do not wear these fabrics: Permanent press, wrinkle resistant, color-fast, stain-resistant, blends (including rayon, polyester-cotton), corduroy or shrink-proof wool.

It is suggested that you read labels in your existing clothing and separate them in your closet so you will know what's safe to wear. Always opt for loose fitting clothing since friction and perspiration can cause condition to flare. Read labels in any new clothing before you purchase. Clothes made in Japan are safest and companies that sell clothes in Japan also have to meet Japanese standard.

Companies that meet Japanese standard: GAP, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Liz Claiborne, Eddie Bauer, Cuddle Duds and Levi Strauss. There may be others but these were on list from American Contact Dermatitis Society.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have this sensitivity please contact your dermatologist to be tested. Also visit website of The American Contact Dermatitis Society for more detailed information.