Testing the effectiveness of different hydration strategies during exercise sessions among physical education university students, Zambezi Region Katima Mulilo.

Abstract

Individualised hydration plans play a significant function in improving the performance and protection of athletes prior, during and after physical activity or any other sporting events. The main aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of different hydration strategies during exercise sessions among physical education university students, Zambezi Region Katima Mulilo. This research paper utilised quantitative approach in its design to collect and analyse gathered data. The sample consisted of n = 100 participants (physical education university students in Katima Mulilo of the Zambezi Region) who were purposively selected on the basis of their active involved with PE. Data was collected using questionnaires and analysed using SPSS software to find frequencies and percentage, which was later presented in graphs. The findings and results of this study revealed hydration strategies utilised before the commencement of the physical activity, to which 31% of PE male participants hydrated by drinking 2-10 ounces (200-300ml) of water 2-4 hour prior to the activity commencement, whilst 69% of male participants did not hydrate at all. Whereas, on the other hand, only 9% of female participants drunk 4-8 ounces of water (120-240ml) every 15-20 minutes, and 41% of female participants did not drink or hydrate during the physical activity. Moreover, the results and findings show hydration tactics used while exercising, to which 15% of male participants drunk 4-8 ounces (120-240ml) every 15-20 minutes, whilst 35% of male participants opted to engaged in the physical activities without hydrating at all. Whereas, on the other hand, only 9% of female participants drunk 4-8 ounces of water (120-240ml) every 15-20 minutes, and 41% of female participants did not drink or hydrate during the physical activity.  Lastly the results and findings show hydration strategy applied after exercising, of which 94% of male participants drunk 16-24 ounces (450-700ml) of water after they have completed the physical activity, only 6% of male participants did not hydrate. On the other hand, 83% of female participants hydrated between 16-24 ounces (450-700ml) of water after they finished engaging in a physical activity, 17% of female opted not to hydrate after.