THE TRADITIONAL SPORT OF TURKS: AN EVALUATION OF HYDRATION KNOWLEDGE OF OIL WRESTLERS

Abstract

This study aimed at evaluating the level of knowledge of oil wrestlers about fluid intake and hydration. The study covered a total of 188 licensed male athletes. The athletes were given a questionnaire in a face to face interview. The 17-item questionnaire contained some personal questions as well as questions that athletes can give answers as true or false in order to assess their level of knowledge about hydration. In statistical analysis of data, SPSS was used, and frequency analysis and arithmetic average values were calculated and t test was used for relevant measurements. The amount of water consumed by athletes during the day of competition was found to be about 4.18±0.96 L/day. A significant difference was observed in water consumptions of athletes according to the answers given to the question: “Athletes should begin each training session or competition well hydrated” (p<0.05). The amount of water that athletes who answered “true” to this question stated consuming during the day of competition is higher than that of the athletes answered “false” to the question. Majority of athletes (62.8%) stated that they did not receive any information from anyone concerning fluid intake while 19.1% expressed they consult to their trainers and 6.4% to their friends. It was found that athletes gave correct answers to 70.6% of all information questions, nevertheless they had a lack of knowledge concerning the methods they apply in determining their sports drinks (questions: 12, 13 and 14) and hydration situations (questions: 1 and 3). In oil wrestling, fluid loss becomes more and more important as competition time extends and the competitions take place outdoors in hot and humid environments. This study displayed that oil wrestlers did not have an insufficient level of knowledge about fluid intake. Nevertheless, they had some shortcomings about sports drinks and receiving information and knowledge from reliable sources.

Key words: Wrestling, Oil Wrestling, Hydration, Fluids