Weight loss and dehydration in bingings during official futsal matches

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study has been to determine the mean level of dehydration in forwards after having played 6 official matches, analyzing the percent of body mass loss.

Method. Five male elite futsal (indoor soccer) players (forwards), from first team squad at Spanish league were weighed without clothing before and after having played 6 official matches (22-26 ºC and relative humidity 32-42.33%) in the Liga Nacional de Fútbol Sala (National Futsal Team [LNFS]). Fluid intake was ad libitum. Kruskal-Wallis statistic was applied to determine the existence of significant differences in the results obtained in the matches.

Results. Fluid intake by the players was inadequate to compensate for the losses produced by the match. Mean body weight lost in forwards after having played official matches (1.25 ± 1.08%) gave rise to a reduction in aerobic performance. There were no significant differences in the results obtained during the 6 matches (p = 0.997).

Conclusions. This data suggests that treatment should be individualized regarding the hydration strategies of the players and that not only the time of the game or specific player position should be taken into account.