RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HYDRATION STATUS, HYDRATION KNOWLEDGE AND FLUID INTAKE BEHAVIOUR AMONG SCHOOL ATHLETES OF SELECTED PERAK SPORT SCHOOLS

Abstract

Journal of Sports Science and Physical Education 2(1): 11–19, 2014 - Maintaining proper hydration status is crucial for sports performance and general well- being. Available data show that despite good knowledge in hydration, some elite and collegiate athletes did not practice proper fluid intake to maintain hydration, thus they may have risk of dehydration. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between hydration status, knowledge and fluid habit among school athletes. This study utilized survey questionnaires to assess hydration knowledge and habit and laboratory equipment to measure hydration status. The findings in this study show that there was no significant correlation (P>0.05) observed among hydration status, hydration knowledge and fluid intake behaviour among the participants. Besides, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in terms of hydration status, knowledge and fluid intake behaviour between males and female participants. In conclusion, this study provides some new insight with respect to hydration status and knowledge among school athletes.

Keywords: hydration status, hydration knowledge, fluid intake behaviour.