1
|
Bongiovanni T, Lacome M, Rodriguez C, Tinsley GM. Tracking Body Composition Over a Competitive Season in Elite Soccer Players Using Laboratory- and Field-Based Assessment Methods. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:e104-e115. [PMID: 38416450 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Bongiovanni, T, Lacome, M, Rodriguez, C, and Tinsley, GM. Tracking body composition over a competitive season in elite soccer players using laboratory- and field-based assessment methods. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): e104-e115, 2024-The purpose of this study was to describe body composition changes in professional soccer players over the course of a competitive playing season and compare the ability of different assessment methods to detect changes. Twenty-one elite male soccer players (age: 23.7 ± 4.8 years; height: 185.0 ± 5.2 cm; body mass: 80.7 ± 5.5 kg; body fat: 12.8 ± 2.2%) playing for an Italian national second league (Serie B) championship team were assessed at 4 time points throughout a competitive season: T0 (mid-October), T1 (mid-December), T2 (mid-February), and T3 (end of April). Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), skinfolds (SKF), and bioelectrical impedance analysis were performed at each time point, and multiple SKF-based equations were applied. A modified 4-compartment (4C) model was also produced. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance, relevant post hoc tests, and Pearson's correlations. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, 4C, and the SKF-based equations of Reilly and Civar detected differences in fat-free mass (FFM) between time points, with the most differences observed for DXA. Fat-free mass increased from T0 values to a peak at T2, followed by a decrease by T3, although FFM values remained higher than T0. Fat-free mass gain was primarily driven by increases in the lower limbs. Fat-free mass changes between all methods were significantly correlated, with correlation coefficients of 0.70-0.97. No significant differences between time points were observed for absolute fat mass or body fat percentage, although significant correlations between several methods for change values were observed. Select laboratory and field methods can detect changes in FFM over the course of a season in elite, professional soccer athletes, with a more limited ability to detect changes in adiposity-related variables. For SKF in this population, the equation of Reilly is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tindaro Bongiovanni
- Player Health & Performance Department, Palermo Football Club, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mathieu Lacome
- Laboratory Sport, French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, France
- Performance and Analytics Department, Parma Calcio 1913, Parma, Italy; and
| | - Christian Rodriguez
- Energy Balance & Body Composition Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Grant M Tinsley
- Energy Balance & Body Composition Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bongiovanni T, Rossi A, Genovesi F, Martera G, Puleo G, Orlandi C, Spedicato M, Iaia FM, Del Vescovo R, Gallo S, Cannataro R, Ripari P, Micheli ML, Cataldi S, Trecroci A. How Do Football Playing Positions Differ in Body Composition? A First Insight into White Italian Serie A and Serie B Players. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2023; 8:80. [PMID: 37367244 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk8020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate how playing positions differ in specific body composition variables in professional soccer players with respect to specific field zones and tactical lines. Five hundred and six Serie A and B professional soccer players were included in the study and analyzed according to their playing positions: goalkeepers (GKs), central backs (CBs), fullbacks (FBs), central midfielders (MIDs), wide midfielders (WMs), attacking midfielders (AMs), second strikers (SSs), external strikers (ESs), and central forwards (CFs), as well as their field zones (central and external) and tactical lines (defensive, middle, and offensive). Anthropometrics (stature and body mass) of each player were recorded. Then, body composition was obtained by means of bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA). GKs and CFs were the tallest and heaviest players, with no differences from each other. Likewise, GKs and CFs, along with CBs, were apparently more muscular (for both upper and lower limbs) and fatter at the same time compared with the other roles. Overall, players of the defensive line (CBs and FBs), along with those playing in central field zones (CBs, MIDs, AMs, SSs, and CFs), were significantly (p < 0.05) superior in almost all anthropometric and body composition variables than those of middle and offensive line and external zones, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tindaro Bongiovanni
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Performance, Palermo Football Club, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessio Rossi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Information Science and Technologies (ISTI), 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Genovesi
- Medical Department, Manchester City Football Club, Manchester M11 3FF, UK
| | - Giulia Martera
- Department of Performance Nutrition, Spezia Calcio, 19123 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Puleo
- Department of Performance, Palermo Football Club, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Carmine Orlandi
- Department of Sport Science, Tor Vergata University of Roma, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Mirco Spedicato
- Department of Nutrition, U.S. Lecce Football Club, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - F Marcello Iaia
- Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Del Vescovo
- Department of Performance, Hellas Verona Football Club, 37135 Verona, Italy
- Villa Stuart Clinic, FIFA Medical Center of Excellence, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Gallo
- Department of Performance, Hellas Verona Football Club, 37135 Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Cannataro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Patrizio Ripari
- Department of Technological Medicine, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Pescara, Italy
| | - Matteo Levi Micheli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50100 Florence, Italy
| | - Stefania Cataldi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Study of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Athos Trecroci
- Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sebastiá-Rico J, Soriano JM, González-Gálvez N, Martínez-Sanz JM. Body Composition of Male Professional Soccer Players Using Different Measurement Methods: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15051160. [PMID: 36904159 PMCID: PMC10005265 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The performance of male soccer players (MSP) depends on multiple factors such as body composition. The physical demands of modern soccer have changed, so the ideal body composition (BC) requirements must be adapted to the present. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to describe the anthropometric, BC, and somatotype characteristics of professional MSP and to compare the values reported according to the methods and equations used. We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science following the PRISMA statement. Random-effects meta-analysis, a pooled summary of means, and 95% CI (method or equation) were calculated. Random models were used with the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) method. Seventy-four articles were included in the systematic review and seventy-three in the meta-analysis. After comparing the groups according to the assessment method (kinanthropometry, bioimpedance, and densitometry), significant differences were found in height, fat mass in kilograms, fat mass percentage, and fat-free mass in kilograms (p = 0.001; p < 0.0001). Taking into account the equation used to calculate the fat mass percentage and ∑skinfolds, significant differences were observed in the data reported according to groups (p < 0.001). Despite the limitations, this study provides useful information that could help medical technical staff to properly assess the BC of professional MSP, providing a range of guidance values for the different BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Sebastiá-Rico
- Area of Nutrition, University Clinic of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Physiotherapy (CUNAFF), Lluís Alcanyís Foundation-University of Valencia, 46020 Valencia, Spain
- Food and Nutrition Research Group (ALINUT), University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Food & Health Lab, Institute of Materials Science, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Jose M. Soriano
- Food & Health Lab, Institute of Materials Science, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Spain
- Joint Research Unit of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, University of Valencia-Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.M.S.); (N.G.-G.); Tel.: +34-627146613 (N.G.-G.)
| | - Noelia González-Gálvez
- Sports Injury Prevention Research Group, Faculty of Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), 30107 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.M.S.); (N.G.-G.); Tel.: +34-627146613 (N.G.-G.)
| | - José Miguel Martínez-Sanz
- Food and Nutrition Research Group (ALINUT), University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
A New Strategy for Somatotype Assessment Using Bioimpedance Analysis: Stratification According to Sex. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2022; 7:jfmk7040086. [PMID: 36278747 PMCID: PMC9590076 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk7040086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Body composition assessment is a relevant element in the biomedical field, in research and daily practice in the medical and nutritional fields, and in the management of athletes. This paper aimed to operate in an Italian sample investigating the possibility of predicting the somatotype from bioimpedance analysis and comparing the predicted results with those obtained from anthropometric measurements. This observational study was conducted with retrospective data collected from 2827 subjects. The somatotype of each subject was calculated both with the Heath−Carter method and by a multiple regression model based on bioimpedance and anthropometric parameters. Somatotypes (endomorph, mesomorph, and ectomorph) were predicted with a high goodness of fit (R2 adjusted > 0.80). Two different somatocharts were obtained from anthropometric measures and bioimpedance parameters and subsequentially compared. Bland−Altman plots showed acceptable accuracy. This study could be a first step in developing a new approach that allows the detection of a subject’s somatotype via bioimpedance analysis, stratified according to sex, with a time-saving and more standardized procedure. It would allow, for example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, to minimize operator−patient contact in having measurements.
Collapse
|
5
|
Bongiovanni T, Rossi A, Iaia FM, Alberti G, Pasta G, Trecroci A. Association of phase angle and appendicular upper and lower body lean soft tissue with physical performance in young elite soccer players: a pilot study. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2021; 62:1015-1022. [PMID: 34546027 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.21.12911-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In soccer, a better understanding of the bioimpedance parameters with physical performance may be useful to efficiently monitor and interpret players' performance variation throughout a certain period of the season. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association between phase angle (PhA) and arms and legs lean soft tissue (ALST and LLST) with physical performance in young elite soccer players. METHODS Fifteen young male elite soccer players (age = 14.2±1.2 years, BMI = 20.51±1.38 kg/m2) participated in this investigation. Raw bioimpedance parameters (reactance, resistance, and phase angle) were obtained by a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) device. Then, ALST and LLST were estimated. All players underwent a physical testing battery including countermovement jump (CMJ), 10-m and 20-m sprint, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YoYo IRTL1) in the domains of anaerobic and aerobic performance, respectively. RESULTS The results showed that LST (total, arms and legs) positively correlated with CMJ (0.64 < r < 0.69; p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with 10-m (-0.59 < r < -0.63; p < 0.05) and 20-m sprint (-0.67 < r < -0.73; p < 0.001), while PhA positively correlated with CMJ (r = 0.57; p < 0.05) and negatively correlated (r = -0.54; p < 0.05) only with 20-m sprint. No significant association was found between the BIA-related parameters (PhA and LST) and Yo- Yo IRT level 1. CONCLUSIONS The present findings highlight the existing association of PhA and LST with jumping and sprinting performance in young elite soccer players. This result supports the use of BIA-related measures as a simple and practical approach to monitoring anaerobic performance changes, rather than aerobic, over time throughout the season.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tindaro Bongiovanni
- Department of Health, Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, Parma Calcio 1913, Parma, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessio Rossi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy -
| | - F Marcello Iaia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Giampietro Alberti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulio Pasta
- Medical Department, Parma Calcio 1913, Parma, Italy
| | - Athos Trecroci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bongiovanni T, Rossi A, Iaia FM, DI Baldassarre A, Pasta G, Manetti P, Alberti G, Trecroci A. Relationship of regional and whole body morphology to vertical jump in elite soccer players: a data-driven approach. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2021; 62:1162-1169. [PMID: 34080815 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.21.12323-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to analyse the relationship of regional and whole body morphology to vertical jump performance and to compare the morphological features outlining high and low performers in professional soccer players. METHODS Twenty-one male soccer players were recruited. Whole and regional (upper and lower limbs) features were obtained in the form of body dimensional measurements. Then, all players were tested for vertical jump performance. A data-driven approach was used to group players according to their jump performance parameters (high vs low). RESULTS The regional morphological features presented higher correlations with vertical jump than whole body features. High and low performers were significantly different among upperand lower-limb morphology. No differences were observed among whole body features. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that, rather than the whole body, the use of morphological features linked to specific body regions may ensure a better interpretation of the soccer players' physical potential in jump performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tindaro Bongiovanni
- Department of Health, Performance and Recovery, Parma Calcio 1913, Parma, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessio Rossi
- Department of Computer Science, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy -
| | - F Marcello Iaia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Angela DI Baldassarre
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University G. D'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulio Pasta
- Medical Department, Parma Calcio 1913, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Giampietro Alberti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Athos Trecroci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Assessment of Body Composition in Athletes: A Narrative Review of Available Methods with Special Reference to Quantitative and Qualitative Bioimpedance Analysis. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13051620. [PMID: 34065984 PMCID: PMC8150618 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Body composition is acknowledged as a determinant of athletic health and performance. Its assessment is crucial in evaluating the efficiency of a diet or aspects related to the nutritional status of the athlete. Despite the methods traditionally used to assess body composition, bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) and bioelectric impedance vector analysis (BIVA) have recently gained attention in sports, as well as in a research context. Only until recently have specific regression equations and reference tolerance ellipses for athletes become available, while specific recommendations for measurement procedures still remain scarce. Therefore, the present narrative review summarizes the current literature regarding body composition analysis, with a special focus on BIA and BIVA. The use of specific technologies and sampling frequencies is described, and recommendations for the assessment of body composition in athletes are provided. Additionally, the estimation of body composition parameters (i.e., quantitative analysis) and the interpretation of the raw bioelectrical data (i.e., qualitative analysis) are examined, highlighting the innovations now available in athletes. Lastly, it should be noted that, up until 2020, the use of BIA and BIVA in athletes failed to provide accurate results due to unspecific equations and references; however, new perspectives are now unfolding for researchers and practitioners. In light of this, BIA and especially BIVA can be utilized to monitor the nutritional status and the seasonal changes in body composition in athletes, as well as provide accurate within- and between-athlete comparisons.
Collapse
|