Impact of dehydration on perceived exertion during endurance exercise: A systematic review with meta-analysis
Thomas A Deshayes1,2, Timothée Pancrate1, Eric D B Goulet1,2
1Faculty of Physical Activity Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, P.Q., Canada.
Background:
Understanding the impact of stressors on the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) is relevant from a performance and exercise adherence/participation standpoint. Athletes and recreationally active individuals dehydrate during exercise. No attempt has been made to systematically determine the impact of exercise-induced dehydration (EID) on RPE.
Objective:
The present meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of EID on RPE during endurance exercise and examine the moderating effect of potential confounders.
Data Analyses:
Performed on raw RPE values using random-effects models weighted mean effect summaries and meta-regressions with robust standard errors, and with a practical meaningful effect set at 1 point difference between euhydration (EUH) and EID. Only controlled crossover studies measuring RPE with a Borg scale in healthy adults performing ≥30 min of continuous endurance exercise while dehydrating or drinking to maintain EUH were included.
Results:
Sixteen studies were included, representing 147 individuals. Mean body mass loss with EUH was 0.5 ± 0.4%, compared to 2.3 ± 0.5% with EID (range 1.7-3.1%). Within an EID of 0.5-3% body mass, a maximum difference in RPE of 0.81 points (95% CI: 0.36-1.27) was observed between conditions. A meta-regression revealed that RPE increases by 0.21 points for each 1% increase in EID (95% CI: 0.12-0.31). Humidity, ambient temperature and aerobic capacity did not alter the relationship between EID and RPE.
Conclusion:
Therefore, the effect of EID on RPE is unlikely to be practically meaningful until a body mass loss of at least 3%.
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