Hydration Knowledge and Practices among School Athletes and Coaches in Tropical Area

Abstract

Purpose: Water makes up 60 - 70% of body, adequate hydration is essential for the performance of student-athletes, but little is known about hydration practices in school sports settings in sub-Saharan Africa. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of hydration among school athletes and coaches in Ngaoundéré, Cameroon. Methods: A total of 200 student-athletes and 30 coaches from 10 secondary schools and 12 sports disciplines were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected on participants' knowledge of hydration principles, self-reported hydration practices during training and competition, and perceived impact on athletic performance. Results: Over 84% of athletes, 93% of coaches recognized the importance of hydration for athletic performance. However significant knowledge gaps existed. Only 17.1 and 31.7% of athletes, 45.5 and 67.2% of coaches could correctly identify the signs of overhydration and dehydration respectively. Less than half of the athletes (44.8%) reported drinking water before, during, and after exercise. Coaches were more likely to encourage proper hydration behaviors, but 23.9% did not provide access to drinking water during training sessions. Factors such as lack of access to clean water and limited sports nutrition education contributed to suboptimal hydration practices. Importantly, athletes who reported adequate hydration were more likely to perceive improvements in their athletic performance and recovery compared to their peers with suboptimal hydration practices (p<0.01). Similarly, coaches who encouraged proper hydration reported better overall athletic performance among their teams. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for targeted hydration education and interventions to support the health and athletic development of school-based athletes in tropical area. Collaboration will be necessary between schools, sports governing bodies, and public health authorities could help promote optimal hydration practices in this setting.