What is the best way to stay hydrated?

According the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), before, during and following exercise, water or a carbohydrate/electrolyte drink is recommended to stay hydrated. The drink of choice should be cold in temperature and taste good to the individual. If it’s more palatable to the person, more will be ingested!
ACSM makes the following general recommendations for the amount and type of fluid that should be ingested before, during and after exercise:
*Approximately 24 hours before exercise, an individual is recommended to consume fluids and foods to promote hydration. Fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates are examples of foods that promote hydration. In addition, avoid too much alcohol and caffeine, as these fluids can cause water loss and promote dehydration.
*Two hours before exercise, 16 ounces (2 cups) of fluid should be ingested to promote hydration and allow time for excretion of excess water.
*During exercise of less than an hour, it is recommended to ingest water every 15 minutes to prevent dehydration. Electrolyte loss is negligible; therefore a carbohydrate drink is not necessary.
*During exercise of greater than an hour, it is recommended to ingest a carbohydrate and electrolyte drink every 15 minutes.
*Never restrict fluids during exercise! Quite the contrary. Encourage your students to take water breaks during the class. Many aquatic exercise professionals actually plan the hydration breaks into the structure of the class.
*After exercise ingest a carbohydrate and electrolyte solution. The carbohydrate will replenish glycogen stores (muscle carbohydrate stores) and the electrolytes will replenish sodium, chloride, and potassium lost in sweat. In addition, avoid carbonated drinks, as they make you feel full and decrease fluid intake.