Body Composition of University Club Sport Athletes
Author Information
Author(s): Dale R. Wagner, Edward M. Heath, Sara A. Harper, Elizabeth A. Cafferty, Masaru Teramoto, Alyssa Evans, Tate Burch, Jacob McBride, Steven Spencer, Michael N. Vakula
Primary Institution: Utah State University
Hypothesis
This study used a four-component (4C) model to measure the body composition of university club sports athletes.
Conclusion
Differences in body fat percentage and fat-free mass index are evident across different sports among university club athletes.
Supporting Evidence
- Body fat percentage ranged from 4.9% to 35.7% for men and 15.5% to 42.8% for women.
- Fat-free mass index varied significantly across different sports.
- Weight-sensitive sports had the leanest athletes, while power sports had the heaviest.
Takeaway
This study looked at how much fat and muscle college club athletes have, showing that athletes in different sports have different body types.
Methodology
The study used a four-component model to assess body composition through air displacement plethysmography, bioimpedance spectroscopy, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.
Potential Biases
Self-reported exclusion criteria may introduce bias, and the study's reliance on specific measurement methods could affect accuracy.
Limitations
The small sample size for some teams limits the ability to make broad comparisons, and hydration status may have affected results.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 137 men and 88 women, predominantly Caucasian, aged 18 to 25 years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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