Bone mineral density in young sprinters and young active men

Introduction The main aim of this study was to compare bone health parameters in young active sprinters and young active men. Summary of facts and results Twenty-six young sprinters and 26 young men participated in this study. Weight and height were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Body composition, whole body (WB) BMC, lumbar spine (L1–L4) BMD, total hip (TH) BMD and forearm BMD were evaluated by DXA. Physical performance variables, daily calcium intake, daily protein intake and physical activity level were assessed. Age, height, lean mass, WB BMC and forearm BMD were not significantly different between the two groups. L1–L4 BMD, TH BMD, vertical jump and maximal strength of the lower limbs were higher in sprinters compared to active men. Conclusion The current study suggests that sprinters have higher lumbar spine and hip BMD values compared to active men. The current study has several implications in the field of prevention of osteoporosis in men.