The relationship between balanced nutrition knowledge level and fluid consumption patterns among petanque athletes of FOPI South Sulawesi

Optimal hydration is essential for maintaining athletic performance, as dehydration can reduce endurance, impair concentration, and increase injury risk. Nutrition knowledge is expected to influence athletes’ fluid consumption patterns; however, gaps between understanding and actual behavior are still frequently observed. This study aimed to examine the relationship between balanced nutrition knowledge and fluid consumption patterns among Petanque athletes of FOPI South Sulawesi. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used involving 35 athletes selected through total sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires assessing nutrition knowledge and daily fluid intake, then analyzed descriptively and using the Spearman Rank correlation test. Results showed that during the pretest, 28.6% of respondents had high nutrition knowledge, 42.9% moderate, and 28.6% low. After an educational intervention, knowledge levels improved, with 62.9% categorized as high, 25.7% moderate, and 11.4% low. Regarding hydration practices, 51.4% consumed adequate fluids (≥2 L/day), 40.0% inadequate (1–1.9 L/day), and 8.6% very inadequate (<1 L/day). Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between balanced nutrition knowledge and fluid consumption patterns (ρ = 0.421; p = 0.014). These findings indicate that enhanced nutrition knowledge contributes to better hydration practices among athletes and highlights the importance of integrating structured nutrition education within sports training programs.