ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Dehydration is a physiological condition that results from prolonged water loss, with consequent elevation of body temperature and reduced athletes’ performance.
Objective:
To evaluate the level of knowledge and the degree of hydration of junior soccer players.
Methods:
This is a cross-sectional study involving 14 soccer players who were evaluated for weight loss after exercise (relative dehydration), pH and density of urine and the level of knowledge about hydration. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 18.0, using a 95% confidence interval, with significance level of p<0.05.
Results:
It was possible to verify that 92.85% of the players were eutrophic and the mean values of relative dehydration, urinary density and pH were of -0.89%, 1,034.43, and 5.64, respectively, revealing dehydration for positions with greater physical wear and 48.9% of the players had a regular knowledge about hydration.
Conclusion:
The dehydration found in junior players can be influenced by different positions in the field and tactical scheme of the game.
Keywords:
sports; fluid therapy; dehydration
