PREPUBESCENT AND ADOLESCENT ATHLETES COMBAT HEAT DIFFERENTLY AT COMPETITIONS

Grove, A. J., Gomez, J. E., & Holcomb, R. A. (2002). Fluid intake, exertion, and dehydration in youth track athletes in extreme conditions. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 34(5), Supplement abstract 770.

Short- and middle-distance age-group athletes (9-11 yr (N = 14); 15-16 yr (N = 12)), competing at a two-day summer meet, were observed for fluid intake and ratings of feelings.

In the adolescent group, fluid intake was significantly related to total exposure on both days. The prepubescent group displayed significant negative correlations between day 1 weight change and exertion, and weight change and rating of enjoyment and total exposure.

Implication. In hot conditions, adolescent athletes increase fluid intake to combat exposure and exertion. On the other hand, prepubescent athletes decrease exertion rather than increase fluid intake as a means of combating heat.

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