Effect of a carbohydrate drink on soccer skill performance following a sport-specific training program

This study examined the effects of 60 minutes of soccer-specific training on skill performance, hydration status, and core temperature (Tc) of soccer players after ingesting either a carbohydrate-containing (CHO) or a carbohydrate-free (CHO-F) drink. This study recruited seven healthy male soccer players (age: 23 ± 2.9 years, height: 1.7 ± 0.04 m, mass: 62.7 ± 6.7 kg), each of whom completed a CHO and a CHO-F trial in a randomized crossover design. The participants underwent skill tests [Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT)] prior to and after 60 minutes of training in a hot and humid environment (30 °C, 85% relative humidity). They consumed 2 mL of fluid per/kg body mass every 15 minutes during exercise. Blood glucose, blood lactate, and Tc were monitored throughout the exercise session. Improvement was observed in movement time (p = 0.034) and overall LSPT performance (p = 0.031) postexercise in those consuming CHO drinks compared with those consuming CHO-F drinks. No differences were observed in Tc or absolute and relative body mass loss between the trial groups (p > 0.05). Urine output was greater in the CHO trial group (CHO: 0.086 ± 0.051 L; CHO-F: 0.030 ± 0.028 L; p = 0.043). Compared with the consumption of a CHO-F drink, that of a CHO drink during a 60-minute soccer-specific exercise session in a hot and humid climate can improve postexercise skill performance. Additionally, Tc can be regulated efficiently by commencing training...
Source: Journal of Exercise Science and Fitness - Category: Sports Medicine Source Type: research