Does increasing active warm-up duration affect afternoon short-term maximal performance during Ramadan?

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Ramadan intermittent fasting can impact hydration and body temperature.
• Afternoon exercise during Ramadan may be affected by cumulative dehydration and fatigue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of active warm-up duration on short-term maximal performance during the afternoon in Ramadan.

Main Methods:

• Healthy men underwent testing with 5-minute and 15-minute warm-ups before and during Ramadan.
• Performance was assessed via vertical jump tests and a 30-second Wingate test.
• Oral temperature and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded.

Main Results:

• Vertical jump height was lower during Ramadan than before, irrespective of warm-up duration.
• Anaerobic power (peak and mean power) was lower during Ramadan.
• A 15-minute warm-up impaired anaerobic power more than a 5-minute warm-up during Ramadan, with higher perceived exertion.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged active warm-up (15 minutes) negatively impacts anaerobic performance during Ramadan afternoons.
• Shorter warm-ups (5 minutes) may be more beneficial for maintaining maximal anaerobic power during Ramadan.