The effect of moderate exercise induced dehydration on cognitive performance on the ImPACT test in NCAA Division III collegiate wrestlers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether moderate exercise-induced dehydration (DEH) has an effect on cognitive performance on the ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) in Division III collegiate wrestlers. 21 NCAA Division III wrestlers representative of 10 collegiate weight classes participated in the study. Subjects completed the computer-based ImPACT test under euhydrated (EUH) conditions, and immediately following, a standard wrestling practice to induce moderate DEH (2.5-4% body weight loss). EUH status was confirmed using urine specific gravity and body weight (BW) measurements of subjects. Percent BW loss (% BW) was determined as the difference between pre and post-practice BW. ImPACT test scores were compared between EUH and DEH conditions to determine if a significant change in specific cognitive performance variables had occurred. Paired t-tests were used to determine significance (p< 0.05) between conditions. Results indicated significant% BW loss (-2.9 �0.4%, p< 0.05) took place indicating moderate DEH status. Significant decreases in the visual memory and visual motor speed, and an increase in impulse control errors were observed after DEH. The results of this study indicated that moderate exercise-induced DEH may negatively affect the interpretation of the diagnostic modules within the ImPACT test.