Exercise and alcohol is a combination many active people juggle — but how does drinking really affect your workouts, performance, recovery and long-term health? In this episode of the Active Health podcast, Dr. Juliet McGrattan, GP, runner and women’s health expert, breaks down the science behind alcohol’s impact on fitness so you can make informed, realistic choices. Whether you enjoy a post-run pint, a celebratory glass of wine after a race, or occasional drinks at the weekend, this episode gives you evidence-based guidance on how alcohol influences endurance, strength, hydration, sleep quality, immune health, injury risk, and your overall ability to train well. Dr. McGrattan also discusses practical strategies for managing alcohol around training, ways to minimise negative effects, and how to spot when drinking habits may be holding you back from your exercise goals. Perfect for runners, gym-goers, cyclists, team-sport athletes and anyone wanting to lead a healthier, more active life without giving up social enjoyment, this episode is packed with clear advice, useful tips and realistic takeaways.

Keywords: exercise and alcohol, drinking and fitness, alcohol and running, alcohol and performance, alcohol recovery, hydration and alcohol, Active Health podcast, Dr Juliet McGrattan, healthy lifestyle, sports health, fitness tips, training advice

Host: Dr. Juliet McGrattan

Active Health is part of the Women Unscripted network (formerly WiSP Sports) founded in 2012 by Chris Stafford, which has more than 1700 episodes from around the world of women’s sport and the arts. We have covered every sport and all the issues around women in sport. We have interviewed hundreds of athletes and several of them have hosted our shows over the years. Subscribe and download Women Unscripted for free access to our extensive archive library.