Body Composition and Bone Mineral Density of a Female Body Builder Following 33 weeks of Pre-Contest Training

Abstract

Marked changes in body composition (BC) often occur as body builders prepare for a contest. These changes are a result of nutritional manipulation, as well as intense and high volume exercise. Concern for the health and well being of the participant is warranted based on severe changes over several months. PURPOSE: To monitor changes in body composition and bone density (BMD) during a six month regimen of vigorous resistance (R), and cardiovascular training (C), a competitive body builder was monitored. METHODS: A 29 yr old female with 8 yrs of R experience was evaluated with Dual-Energy Xray Absorptiometry (iDEXA) for BC and BMD at 1, 24 and 32 weeks prior to competition. During the initial 22 wks she consumed an isocaloric diet and engaged in R and C at a frequency of 4-5 and 3 sessions/wk, respectively. The intensity (momentary muscular fatigue) and volume (90 min R, 45 min C) of workouts were similar throughout the study, but frequency increased to 6x/wk for R, and to 4x/wk for C, while during the final 10 wks (pre-competition) she ingested less than 1300 kcal/day (60% protein, 15% fat, 25% CHO). Her CHO intake was primarily ingested immediately prior to and during workouts. In addition, she ingested supplements of creatine monohydrate, BCAA, high protein and electrolytes both pre and post every R session. RESULTS:Table: No title available.Bone mineral content was maintained at 2.5 kg throughout the 32 weeks. In addition, regional % fat was reduced 42.9, 46.2, and 60%, in the arms, legs, and trunk from 24 to 1 wk pre competition, respectively. CONCLUSION: High intensity and high volume R and C training combined with limited dietary intake and high protein supplements can maintain BMD and LBM despite enormous reductions in body fat, body mass (BM) and regional fat distribution.