THE HYDRATION STATUS OF MALAYSIA’S YOUNG MALE SOCCER PLAYERS DURING COMPETITIVE SEASON

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the preexercise hydration status and to assess body mass (BM) loss (kg) of young male soccer player’s (age 15.6 ± 0.4) training in a hot and humid environment. Methods: Twenty male soccer players (n = 20, 55.3 ± 8.4 kg) from Sekolah Sukan Bukit Jalil (SSBJ), Malaysia had volunteered to participate in this study. Measurements of hydration status were taken on two occasions during competitive season. Urine sample was collected and handheld refractometer was used to assess the urine specific gravity (USG). Body weight was monitored before and after training session. The results showed that the participants were within the normal range of hydration status (1.016 ± 0.01). No significant difference was observed between measurements in USG (1.016 ± 0.01 v 1.017 ± 0.01, p >0.05) and BM loss (kg) (0.20 ± 0.5 vs. 0.24 ± 0.3, p >0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, this study indicates that the participants have an effective hydration strategy during the training session in competitive season.