Hydration optimization through athletic performance testing
A two-phase clinical trial at Rice University aims to optimize hydration during athletic performance using advanced monitoring tools. The trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a new hydration beverage in maintaining athlete hydration and performance under real-world conditions.
Overview
Rice University proposes a two-phase clinical trial to optimize hydration strategies during athletic performance. The study will utilize Rice's NCAA Division 1 athletes to test the effectiveness of a new hydration beverage. The goal is to maintain optimal hydration and performance during exercise in high temperature and humidity conditions, leveraging advanced fitness tracking technologies.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Target Population: Over 500 NCAA Division 1 athletes at Rice University
- Advanced Monitoring: Utilization of Catapult vests and WHOOP fitness trackers for real-time data on exercise intensity and heart rate
- Testing Environment: Combination of laboratory and real-world practice conditions
- Measurement Tools: Blood analysis, blood-flow restriction, saliva analysis, and MX3 platform for hydration status
- Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, cross-over design with multiple trials comparing new hydration beverage, water, and standard team beverage
Technology readiness level
The study is currently at a Technology Readiness Level 5, involving validation in relevant environments through controlled clinical trials. The trials are designed to refine the hydration beverage for eventual deployment in athletic settings.
About Rice University
Rice University is a private research university in Houston recognized for small scale and intensive research. Industry engages through on-campus design and prototyping facilities and multi-tenant research space adjacent to the Texas Medical Center, enabling clinical collaboration and rapid validation. A university-backed innovation district in central Houston links corporate R&D with faculty labs, startups, and talent, and proximity to the Energy Corridor and NASA’s Johnson Space Center provides access to regional clusters. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, startup formation, and streamlined sponsored research agreements.
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