I have always been fascinated with the history of distance running. Recently, I came across a New York Times article from 1885 that gives training advice. It’s a fun read. The article generally has decent advice (don’t smoke, gradually build up training, etc.). However, the advice about drinking fluids before and after running is..interesting:
As to drinking, there is one cardinal rule – you must drink as little as you can get along with even of water. You don’t want to swallow anything that is fattening, and even water has a tendency that way…I don’t say that an athlete who has overexerted himself should not take a glass of brandy. It will act as a stimulant, and will be all the more effective because he is not accustomed to it. Beer, ale and stout are the only safe drinks for an athlete. They are not only harmless, when used with moderation, but they are positively beneficial.
I’m pretty sure that this is the first time I’ve heard water described as “fattening”
