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Rowing performance, fluid balance, and metabolic function following dehydration and rehydration
C M Burge1, M F Carey, W R Payne
1Department of Chemistry and Biology, Victoria University of Technology, Footscray, Australia.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Water rehydration after dehydration impairs rowing performance by reducing plasma volume and muscle glycogen utilization. This study highlights the negative impact of dehydration on elite athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Human Performance
Background:
- Dehydration significantly impacts athletic performance.
- Understanding rehydration strategies is crucial for athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of water rehydration after 24-hour dehydration on rowing performance.
- To assess changes in body fluid balance and metabolic function.
Main Methods:
- Eight elite lightweight rowers underwent a 24-hour dehydration protocol.
- Maximal rowing trials were conducted in euhydrated and rehydrated states.
- Body weight, plasma volume, and muscle glycogen were measured.
Main Results:
- Dehydration reduced body weight by 5.16% and plasma volume by 12.5%.
- Rehydration restored plasma volume by 6.02%.
- Rowing performance decreased, with longer trial times and reduced muscle glycogen utilization in the rehydrated state.
Conclusions:
- Partial rehydration with water following dehydration negatively affects maximal rowing performance.
- Lowered plasma volume and reduced muscle glycogen utilization contribute to performance decrements.