Body Composition Assessment in Young Bulgarian Tennis Athletes Body composition is a major factor determining achievements in racket sports (tennis, table tennis and squash) and plays a significant role in the level of physical development. The aim of th

Abstract

 Body composition is a major factor determining achievements in racket sports (tennis, table tennis and squash) and plays a significant role in the level of physical development.

The aim of the present study is to assess body composition in young Bulgarian tennis players. A total of 86 boys (26 tennis players, 60 schoolchildren), aged 10-11 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. Body composition was determined by means of multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance measurements (BIA). The following anthropometric indices were calculated: fat mass index (FMI=fat mass/ stature², kg/ m²), fat free mass index (FFMI= fat free mass/ stature², kg/m²). Comparisons between groups were performed by Student t-test (P< 0.05). Relationships between anthropometric features and training experience of tennis players were assessed by Pearson’s correlation. Tennis players (TP) had significantly lower weight, body mass index, body fat and percent body fat compared to non-tennis players (NTP). The mean values of FMI in TP were 3.08 ± 1.42 kg/ m² and they were lower than these in untrained controls (4.99 ± 2.99 kg/m²). The average values of FFMI in the investigated groups were equal (P>0.05). In athlete they were 14.12± 0.98 kg/m² and in non-athlete – 14.30 ± 1.04 kg/ m². Training experience of TP was significantly and negatively correlated with several anthropometric traits and indices of body composition. Physical activity, particular tennis training was inversely correlated with body weight, body fat and FMI, moderately correlated with FFM in children.