A179: Investigation of Hydration Status and Drinking Water IntakeRecommendations in Taekwondo Athletes

BACKGROUND: Water is a crucial component of the human body, participating in numerous metabolic processes and playing a vital role in maintaining life and athletic performance. Water imbalance is a common occurrence among athletes, including those in Taekwondo, who are particularly susceptible to dehydration due to intense exercise, significant fluid loss, and pre-competition weight reduction. Proper hydration is crucial for taekwondo athletes. However, current water intake recommendations have not been specifically tailored to this sport. Objective: To investigate the quantity and composition of daily fluid intake among Taekwondo athletes, with the aim of preventing dehydration and improper rehydration practices that may negatively impact physical health and athletic performance. The research findings will serve as a theoretical foundation for developing an effective rehydration program, enhancing the hydration status of Taekwondo athletes, and elevating their sports performance. METHODS: Sixty-six taekwondo athletes were recruited using a simple random sampling method. The participants recorded their daily fluid intake, using graduated cups for 7 consecutive days. They also filled in a 24-hour water intake record form for 7 days. Urine specific gravity and osmotic pressure were measured by collecting morning urine samples for 7 consecutive days. RESULTS: 1. The survey participants had a median daily fluid rehydration volume of 1,765 mL, with men consuming 1,800 mL and women consuming 1,755 mL, mainly in the form of plain water. Approximately 84.80% of the subjects were dehydrated using urinary specific gravity >1.020 as the dehydration standard, while 85.7% were dehydrated using osmotic pressure ≥800 mOsm/kg as the standard. The subjects had a median urine specific gravity of 1.025 and a median osmotic pressure of 10050 mOsm/kg. The hydration status of male participants was superior to that of female participants, particularly on rest days compared to training days. Additionally, female athletes in the 57 kg weight category exhibited the highest level of hydration. CONCLUSION: 1. The study found that the current drinking habits of Taekwondo athletes are insufficient to meet their body's water demands during daily life, which can lead to dehydration. 2. It is suggested that Taekwondo athletes and coaches improve their awareness and behaviour. Professional athletes should receive education on fluid rehydration, including the importance of proper fluid intake during sports activities. This will increase their awareness of the importance of fluid rehydration and improve their rehydration behavior.