All runners share one thing: sweat. While we’re all subject to beads of perspiration dripping down our foreheads, sweat isn’t the same for everyone. Some runners hardly notice it, while others finish a run absolutely soaked. And then there are the salty sweaters: runners who have visible white streaks and can feel the crunch of salt and sweat on their clothes and skin. 

Sweating salt is completely normal. But it may influence how you fuel and hydrate your workouts. Emilie Burgess Horvath, registered dietitian at HSS explained that you will typically be able to tell if your sweat is predominantly salty based on the following indicators.

Your sweat tastes salty: “One of the most common signs I usually see in practice is definitely the salt taste within your sweat, like when it hits your lips, during exercise,” Burgess Horvath said.

Your sweat burns your eyes: It’s not the run making you cry; it’s the salt from your sweat getting in your eyes. (Granted, this could be sunscreen or mascara, so look out for the other signs.)

You notice white stains on your clothes: Look for white chalky stains or crust on your workout clothes, like your shirt or the inside of your hat, as another sign your sweat is majorly salty, according to Burgess Horvath. You’ll likely be able to see white salt lines on your skin post-run, too.

You frequently get muscle cramps: Muscle cramping, especially in hot and humid conditions, is another signal your sweat is salty, Burgess Horvath said. Losing sodium (an electrolyte) through your sweat causes your muscles to tighten and cramp. (It’s important to note that muscle cramps could also be the result of many other factors, like dehydration, overexertion or fatigue, circulatory issues, medications, and other medical conditions, so it’s important to chat with your doctor if you experience them regularly.) 

Read the full article at run.outsideonline.com.