Fluid Balance in Surfers: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Environmental Physiology
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Surfing involves unique hydration challenges due to semi-submerged conditions and varied apparel.
• Direct sweat loss measurement in surfers is difficult, complicating fluid balance assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and identify factors influencing fluid balance in surfing participants.
• To assess the quality of existing research on fluid loss in surfing.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review of nine databases was conducted.
• Seven studies, including five cross-sectional and two randomized controlled trials, met the inclusion criteria.

Main Results:

• Overall fluid loss averaged 0.57 L/h with 1.3% body mass loss.
• Surfers in wetsuits showed greater body mass loss (1.05% vs. 0.59%).
• Elite surfers in wetsuits reported high fluid losses (1.68 L/h) and significant body mass loss (3.9%).

Conclusions:

• Fluid losses in surfers are generally lower than land-based athletes, but elite surfers experience significant losses.
• Current research quality on surfer fluid loss is poor.
• Further investigation is crucial for developing evidence-based hydration guidelines for surfers across different conditions and apparel.