Relationship between fluid intake, training duration, and caloric expenditure in physically active adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v76.118435Keywords:
Adults, energy expenditure, exercise, hydration, monitoring, physiologic.Abstract
Introduction: Physical activity is a key determinant for cardiometabolic health, with caloric expenditure serving as an essential operational indicator of training dose in real-world conditions. Understanding its predictors allows for a better interpretation of the relationship between exercise habits and energy balance.
Objective: To evaluate the predictive weight and direct relationship of fluid intake and session duration on caloric expenditure in physically active adults.
Methodology: A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional observational design and analytical-correlational scope was conducted in 973 adults. Variables were obtained through multi-brand smartwatches and digital anamnesis, and data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression.
Results: A very strong positive linear association was identified between duration and caloric expenditure (r = .908; p < .001), and a moderate relationship with fluid intake (r = .357; p < .001). The regression model explained 83.5% of the total variance, highlighting duration as the predictor of greatest magnitude (β = .877) compared to hydration (β = .108).
Discussion: The findings were consistent with studies pointing to temporal volume as the central determinant of energy expenditure over nutritional factors. The role of hydration aligned with research positioning it as a physiological facilitator of performance rather than a direct thermal driver.
Conclusions: Session duration was the primary predictor of caloric expenditure, while hydration acted as a support for the continuity of effort. Public health strategies should prioritize temporal adherence to exercise for the control of energy balance.
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