| dc.description.abstract | Third generation (3G) artificial turf sports fields have been utilized since the 1990s. Research has shown the surface temperature of these turf fields can reach up to 170°F. This temperature is significantly higher than natural grass fields and raises concerns for athletes. No known literature currently has examined the hydration status and performance of athletes on artificial turf versus natural grass fields. We made comparisons of artificial turf and natural grass, focused on performance, different surface temperatures, and possibly investigate further research regarding hydration on only artificial turf. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the athletes’ perception of hydration status and performance on natural grass versus artificial turf and how they prepare for each surface. We hypothesized that the participants would say they’ve become dehydrated more quickly playing on artificial turf in comparison to natural grass. Additionally, we hypothesized sharing results of the hydration study would alter the athletes’ perspective on dehydration when competing on natural grass versus artificial turf fields. Athletes ranging from 18-28 years old were given two surveys using RedCap. The two surveys consisted of their hydration preparation and game behavior. The participants were divided into two groups. The first group was the hydration group, where we took measurements of their weight loss, sweat production, urine samples, heart rate, active participation, distance traveled, and body temperature. The second group was the non-hydration group, where only heart rate, active participation, and distance traveled was measured. Participants had previously completed a two-day hydration study playing on both artificial turf and natural grass. The surveys were distributed six months after the hydration study in a class setting. The first survey was given before presenting the hydration study results, and the second survey was given after. We surveyed all the athletes that were part of TAMU Men’s Soccer club team, however, we primarily looked at the ones that participated in the hydration study. It was found that most participants had a preference of performing on natural grass, as the athletes unanimously voted that there is a temperature difference between artificial turf and natural grass. Prior to the presentation, in the second survey it was recorded that 90% of participants stated they would change their hydration habits in the future. These findings are in support of our hypothesis, as the participants have learned of the extreme water loss that takes place on only one outdoor sports event in hot conditions and made conscious acknowledgements to properly hydrate in the future. | |
