Body Composition Changes in Male Collegiate Lacrosse Players from Preseason to Post Season

Abstract

Body composition changes differ in all sports due to specific training. In the off season most teams participate in strength training programs, however during the competitive season, training is often replaced with team sport training. Lacrosse players in previous studies showed better performance with decreased body fat percentage and increased lean body mass. However, its common during the competitive season to show an increased expenditure with more frequent practices and no adaptation to diet, which can lead to a decrease in lean body mass (LBM) along with rapid body fat percent loss in the competitive season. These changes can increase chances of injury, decrease performance, and slow recovery. PURPOSE: To examine body composition changes in male collegiate lacrosse players from preseason to post season METHODS: We examined 18 male NCAA Division II collegiate lacrosse players (age 19.6±1.72) pre -competitive season, and post -season (January and May). Subjects completed a body composition assessment using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS: Using descriptive statistics and a 2 way t-test, there was a decrease in overall total mass of 8.7 lbs. (179.9±33.2 vs 171.2±28.2, p=0.42). Body fat % decreased by 2.5% (21.1±7.6 vs. 18.6±6.7, p=0.58). Lean body mass increased by 1.5 lbs. (133.9±16.44 vs. 135.3±15.3). CONCLUSION: Although these results were not significant, there was a decrease in % body fat and a minimal increase in lean body mass from pre to post season in Division II male lacrosse players. These changes do not demonstrate negative energy balance throughout the competitive season as previous research suggests.