Evaluation of water loss and state of hydration during army's physical training

Abstract

Introduction: In a practitioner of intense physical activity, and depending on the environment where one performs the activity, the water imbalance can interfere in the hydric homeostasis, leading to the impairment on the individual's performance and health, situation that resembles the military practice, where a good preparation and physical performance are necessary. Objective: This study had the purpose of evaluating the hydration levels and the hydration status of soldiers in the city of Montes Claros-MG Materials and methods: 61 marines from the 55th Infantry Battalion of Montes Claros-MG were selected. The marines went through a socio-demographic evaluation and nutritional anamnesis. Anthropometric measurements (weight, height and skinfolds) evaluations were also performed. In addition, the Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Data on water loss were collected during three physical trainings (Training A, Training B and Training C). Dehydration through urinalysis was also evaluated. Results: The army marines had ages between 18 and 23 (19.03 ± 0.94) years. They are considered eutrophic (24.01 ± 3.04), and with body fat percentage above the average (15.99 ± 3.02). The analysis results of body weight related to training showed significant variations between training A, B and C, with a more expressive PHR in training A and C. When evaluating dehydration by the difference in body weight, it can be observed that most of the marines had minimal dehydration. Conclusion: The data indicate the need for new studies, in addition to the awareness and stimulation of water replenishment by the marines.