Solera, A., Salazar, W., & Passe, D. (1999). Influence of dehydration and rehydration on cognitive processes. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 31(5), Supplement abstract 905.

Ss (N = 23) participated randomly in three treatments of 90 minutes each on different days: a control/normal condition, cycling at 70% HRmax without rehydration, and cycling at 70% HRmax with rehydration using Gatorade. Environmental conditions were 100% humidity and a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius. Several motor control and cognitive tests were used at 0, 30, 60, and 90 minutes of each trial. Dehydrated Ss lost an average of 1.78% of bodyweight.

Reaction time improved as the exercise period progressed. Reaction velocity was significantly faster in hydrated Ss. Memory and visual perception tests were not affected.

Implication. Motor control factors are affected by the state of hydration of an athlete. Reaction and movement factors are reduced with dehydration.

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