Camelback

Question
QUESTION:    I've been running with a Camelback lately. I enjoy the peace of mind it gives me.
  Is it safe to run while wearing it? Over time will this cause some kind of damage to my knees, back, feet or any other part of my body?

ANSWER: Jerry,

I would not recommend wearing it as it adds unnatural weight to your body and over time will most likely lead to injury of some kind. If you stay hydrated before and after your run, you will be fine. Why do you feel you need it?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION:    My original thought was that the added weight would make me a better runner when it comes time to run without the CamelBack.
  Plus, running with a bottle in both hands is annoying.
  When I run, I run for a set time, not distance. For years I ran without a CamelBack until recently.
  Any suggestions?

Answer
Jerry,

First, running with a camelback will over time affect your form in a negative way. Adding unnatural weight can lead to injury, and when you add the fact that the weight will constantly be changing as you run (due to less water) I really wouldn't recommend it. Secondly, unless you are going out for long runs, you shouldn't really need water during the run. If you do a long run, it is better to set a bottle out somewhere, and swing back by for a drink. The running community went decades without Camelbacks and can continue without them. The body is very smart and adapts naturally to stimulus. Really, running with this unnatural weight on the body is setting yourself up for injury.

Ryan