Abstract
BackgroundThe assessment of body composition may assist in optimizing competitive efficiency and monitoring the success of training regimes for young soccer players. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors for Fat-Free Mass (FFM) and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) of young soccer players. Also, the goal was to propose regression equations to estimate FFM and BDM through anthropometric variables.MethodsOne hundred and sixty-seven young soccer players ages 10.0 to 19.9 years old were studied. Weight, height, trunk-cephalic length, right arm circumference, diameter of the humerus, and length of the foot were assessed. FFM and BDM were determined by using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Maturity status using Peak Height Velocity (PHV) was calculated.ResultsMaturity status, weight, and circumference of the relaxed arm positively related to the FFM (R2 = 41–66%). Similarly, PHV, weight, diameter of the humerus, and length of the foot explained BDM in both groups of soccer players (goalkeepers and filed players) (R2 = 45–82%). Six equations to predict FFM (R2 = 62–69%) and six to predict BDM (R2 = 69–90%) were created. Chronological age had a limited use for predicting FFM and BDM.ConclusionResults suggested the use and application of the regression equations as a non-invasive alternative for everyday use in soccer clubs.
Highlights
The assessment of body composition can provide valuable information about the changes that arise during the stages of training (Wittich et al, 1998)
No significant differences occurred between both groups regarding chronological age, length of the foot, diameter of the humerus, and the bone mineral density (BMD) (p > 0.05)
A positive relationship occurred between chronological age and maturity status with the FatFree Mass (FFM) and BMD in both groups
Summary
The assessment of body composition can provide valuable information about the changes that arise during the stages of training (Wittich et al, 1998). The Mechanostat Theory (Rauch et al, 2004) can be used to explain the muscle-bone relationship where larger muscles exert greater traction on the connector bones In this sense, bone strength can be affected by physical exercise in two ways: from high impact loads associated with exercise and through indirect osteogenic muscle development in a given area where greater stress is exerted on the bone (Rahnama et al, 2005; Vicente-Rodriguez, 2006). The evaluation of these parameters can help optimize competitive efficiency and monitor the success of the training regimes of young soccer players. The assessment of body composition may assist in optimizing competitive efficiency and monitoring the success of training regimes for young soccer players. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors for FatFree Mass (FFM) and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) of young soccer players. The goal was to propose regression equations to estimate FFM and BDM through anthropometric variables
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