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Chronic weight control impacts on physiological function and bone health in elite jockeys
Giles Warrington1, Eimear Dolan, Adrian McGoldrick
1School of Health and Human Performance, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland. giles.warrington@dcu.ie
Journal of Sports Sciences
|April 2, 2009
Summary
Horse racing jockeys face significant health risks due to weight restrictions, including dehydration and osteopenia. These findings highlight the need for further research into jockey weight control practices and their impact on health.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Human Physiology
- Bone Health
Background:
- Horse racing jockeys operate under strict weight restrictions.
- These restrictions may pose health risks to athletes.
- Previous research has not fully explored the physiological and bone health impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of weight restrictions on jockey physiological function.
- To evaluate bone mineral density in elite jockeys.
- To investigate hydration status and injury prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Anthropometric measurements were taken.
- Hydration status was analyzed using urine-specific gravity (Usg).
- Bone mineral density was assessed, and musculoskeletal screening was performed.
Main Results:
- 59% of flat and 40% of national hunt jockeys exhibited osteopenia.
- Moderate dehydration was observed on non-race days (Usg ≈ 1.022).
- Marked dehydration occurred on race days (Usg ≈ 1.028), with 64% reporting current injuries.
Conclusions:
- Jockey weight control practices are associated with significant health concerns.
- Findings indicate potential risks to bone health and hydration.
- Further research is crucial to understand the full impact on jockey health and performance.
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