| Summary: | Overview: This study aims to review the use of coconut water (CW) in sport for the purposes of hydration and to support resistance training, aerobic and anaerobic performance. Methods: A literature review on the topic of CW was undertaken of articles pertaining to the consumption of CW to aid exercise performance, hydration and rehydration, resistance training, aerobic and anaerobic performance, and as an ergogenic aid. A summary of the study findings was recorded. All statistical analyses done in IBM SPSS v22 established the p-value at .05, and Cohen’s D set at .7. A paired t-test was used to compare the nutritional content of CW to that of carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks. Results: Marginal differences were observed in the hydration status, aerobic performance, blood glucose and blood lactate concentrations when participants consumed CW compared to carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks or plain water (PW). However, CW was generally deemed to be sweeter, caused less stomach upset and nausea compared to PW. No conclusion could be drawn regarding the effects of consuming CW on strength training, anaerobic performance, and the use of CW as an ergogenic aid. Conclusion: The data available suggests that CW can be used as a substitute for PW and carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks. Future studies should investigate the effects of CW consumption on strength and anaerobic training, and the use of CW as an ergogenic aid.
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