Body Composition of Male Professional Soccer Players Using Different Measurement Methods: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

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.

ISAK-Based Anthropometric Standards for Elite Male and Female Soccer Players

“…Transition periods are deemed opportune “windows” for achieving significant gains of muscle mass and losses of fat mass, while the rehabilitation process involves monitoring to ensure that body composition features return to their pre-injury state [ 26 , 27 ]. Generally, various tools are used to estimate components related to fat or muscle mass, differing in cost and accuracy [ 28 ]. However, when assessing body composition, it is crucial to acknowledge that different assessment methods may yield disparate estimates, irrespective of the considered body mass component [ 29 ].…”

“…However, when assessing body composition, it is crucial to acknowledge that different assessment methods may yield disparate estimates, irrespective of the considered body mass component [ 29 ]. In the context of soccer, the application of various equations and methods often leads to a variation in fat mass values, ranging from 11% to 14% [ 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 ]. This variability in the procedures employed makes it challenging and not always reliable to compare values from different studies.…”

Analysis of Fluid Balance and Urine Values in Elite Soccer Players: Impact of Different Environments, Playing Positions, Sexes, and Competitive Levels

“…BIA is a non-invasive and easy-to-apply method based on the principle that body water conductivity varies between different compartments and can be used to calculate fat mass and fat-free mass (including total body water) [ 48 ]. Determining the water status prior to training and/or competitions could enhance hydration patterns and prevent adverse effects, such as dehydration and hyperhydration, which can negatively impact sports performance or increase the risk of injury [ 49 ]. However, it is important to note that certain diseases, treatments, clinical situations, and individual conditions (such as ethnicity and extremity position), as well as the type of bioimpedance (including the number of electrodes and frequency), and rules of use, may affect the results of this instrument [ 50 ].…”

Effects of a Competitive Season on the Plasma Lipid Profile of Soccer Players

“…Among professional soccer players, a lower BMI is associated with a more favorable lipid-lipoprotein pro le [21]. There are also studies reporting changes in anthropometric characteristics and body composition during periods of soccer training and their signi cant impact on player performance [26,27]. During the season we noted a constant decrease in weight, BMI, and percentage of fat mass together with an increase in lean mass, thus con rming the signi cant decrement in adipose tissue content during the training period reported by other studies [28,29].…”