Thermoregulatory Responses and Match Characteristics Across Successive Badminton Matches

To determine the impact of 2 successive badminton matches on thermal strain, perceptual measures, and match characteristics in trained players.

Twenty-eight (15 male and 13 female) trained badminton players performed 2 successive singles matches (2 × 30 min; M1 and M2) in 23.8 °C (4.9 °C) and 54.5% (12.9%) relative humidity (19.2 °C [3.5 °C] indoor wet-bulb globe temperature). Matches were each preceded by a 5-minute warm-up and separated by 25 minutes of rest. Core temperature (Tcore), skin temperature, and heart rate were recorded, while sweat loss was determined through changes in body mass. Game characteristics were analyzed from video footage.

Peak Tcore was 38.7 °C (0.5 °C) (M1) and 38.6 °C (0.4 °C) (M2), with no difference in average Tcore during M1 (38.4 °C [0.3 °C]), rest (38.2 °C [0.4 °C]), and M2 (38.3 °C [0.3 °C], P > .05). Players spent 46% (36%) (M1) and 31% (32%) (M2) of match duration at Tcore ≥38.5 °C. Average skin temperature was higher during rest (31.9 °C [2.2 °C], P < .001) than at other time points. Average heart rate was greater during M1 (162 [16] beats·min-1) than M2 (158 [15] beats·min-1, P = .036). Fluid consumed during matches (M1: 484 [284] mL, M2: 465 [264] mL) was sufficient to offset sweat loss (M1: 566 [471] mL, M2: 497 [260] mL), keeping dehydration below 1% body mass. The only match characteristic that differed was an increase in total strokes executed from M1 to M2 (216 [29] vs 226 [30] strokes, P = .004).

Thermal strain, perceptual measures, and match characteristics remained consistent across 2 successive badminton matches, despite mild hyperthermia. Adequate fluid replenishment is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.