Supplements and aids used by athletes participating in the 2022 masters field hockey world cup

Background: Masters athletes, typically aged 35 and older, continue to train and compete at high levels. Like their younger counterparts, they may utilize a variety of supplements, training and recovery aids to enhance their health, performance, and recovery. However, little research has been conducted with the masters athlete population. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine supplement and training and recovery aids used by athletes participating in the 2022 Masters Field Hockey World Cup. Materials and Methods: A total of 471 participants (53.3% male, 46.7% female), from 24 different countries, with a mean age of 57+ 9.9 years (range of 34-84 years) completed the Health and Well-being of Masters Hockey Survey. Results: Significant differences were obtained for health, dietary and performance supplements by gender and age. More females indicated using probiotic, calcium, and iron supplements than males. Participants ages 35-39 and 40-44 indicated greater use of protein/amino acids and pre-workout supplements. For training aids, gender differences were obtained only for compression clothing, with more males reported using than females. With activity trackers, participants in the age group 40-44 reported higher usage than those ages 60 and over and all younger age groups reported higher usage of self-myofascial techniques than those age 70 and older. Conclusions: There were differences by gender and age groups in reported usage of health, dietary and performance supplements by masters hockey athletes competing in the 2022 World Cup. There were also significant differences in the use of training and recovery aids. Additional research into the efficacy of supplements and aids is needed to support the unique needs and challenges faced by masters athletes.