Influence of hydrotherapy on fatigue recovery in sports athletes

ABSTRACT Objective: This paper explores whether the use of aquatic relaxation methods can effectively eliminate fatigue after high-intensity load training. Methods: Twenty athletes were invited to participate in the experimental aquatic relaxation-based test after a battery of strenuous exercise. The following markers were analyzed: blood urea, blood testosterone, hemoglobin, and cortisol. The data were collected before training, 30 minutes after the exercises, and the next day. Results: Sensible changes in the markers were observed. The fatigue manifested by sports training is closely related to several factors, such as sports training load, cardiac function, oxygen consumption, and metabolite accumulation. Conclusions: Aquatic relaxation can effectively relieve fatigue in athletes. Although there is a positive effect, traditional means should not be substituted. It is suggested that the coach combine relaxation methods according to each athlete's preference. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.