Abstract
1240 The deleterious effects of dehydration have been extensively studied. Fluid ingestion guidelines have, therefore, been established to aid in reducing dehydration risk. However, fluid accessibility is also a critical component in minimizing this risk. It is not enough to just carry sufficient quantities of fluid in the field. Individuals must have easy access to the fluid in order to consume proper amounts. PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate if subjects can maintain hydration status when using a hands free, back mounted hydration system (BMHS) compared to using water bottles (WB) during an 18 km hike. METHODS: Fourteen experienced hikers completed this crossover design on two days, separated by at least one week. Hiking took place on wooded, semi-hilly trails. All subjects started the hike with 3 L of water and were instructed to drink as they desired during the hike. Average temperature during hiking was 21C. Blood was collected pre and post hike, while urine was monitored at four points throughout the hike. RESULTS: Subjects drank more water with BMHS (2006 ± 206 mL) than WB (877 ± 130 mL; p = .000). Urine output was 771 ± 91 mL for BMHS and 541 ± 101 mL for WB (p = .02). Urine volume accounted for 40 ± 5% and 72 ± 13% of fluid intake for BMHS and WB trials (p = .02). Urine and serum osmolalities were maintained at baseline levels for BMHS, but increased by 385 ± 45 and 4 ± 4.2 mOsm/kg water during WB (p = .000 and .005). Subjects lost 0.02 ± .2% and 1.2 ± .2% BW during the BMHS and WB trials (p = .000). Time to complete the 18 km course was 241.6 ± 19.9 min for BMHS and 258.5 ± 18.6 min for WB (p = .03). CONCLUSIONS: Subjects maintained hydration status at baseline levels during four hours of hiking when using a BMHS. Even with sufficient fluid quantities available and ad libitum access, subjects became significantly dehydrated during the WB trial. Although subjects started the hike with equal volumes of water, better accessibility led to greater ingestion and enhanced performance during the BMHS trial.
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