Gary Slater - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Gary Slater

Additional resources to support the content in Best Practice Protocols for Physique Assessment in... more Additional resources to support the content in Best Practice Protocols for Physique Assessment in Sport are available at the J.E. Lindsay Carter Kinanthropometry Clinic and Archive (JELCKCA) website jelckca-bodycomp.com, which links you to the YouTube channel http://tinyurl.com/YouTubeChannel-ProfPatria. YouTube videos include introduction of experts and their background in physique assessment, demonstration of physique assessment procedures and commentary from experts on issues related to physique assessment. The physical kinanthropometry archive is located at the Auckland University of Technology Millennium precinct in Auckland, New Zealand.

Nutrients

Nutrition education (NE) is one of several strategies aimed at enhancing the dietary intake of at... more Nutrition education (NE) is one of several strategies aimed at enhancing the dietary intake of athletes. This study investigated NE preferences of New Zealand and Australian athletes competing nationally and internationally. Athletes (n = 124, 22 (18, 27) years, female 54.8%) from 22 sports completed an online survey, with responses analysed using descriptive statistics. Teaching techniques considered ‘extremely effective’ were life examples (47.6% of athletes), hands-on activities (30.6%), and discussions with a facilitator (30.6%). Setting personal nutrition goals was important to most athletes (83.9%), along with two-way feedback with a facilitator (75.0%). General nutrition topics considered ‘essential’ were energy requirements (52.9%), hydration (52.9%), and nutrient deficiencies (43.3%). Performance topics considered ‘essential’ were recovery (58.1%), pre-exercise nutrition (51.6%), nutrition during exercise (50.0%), and energy requirements for training (49.2%). Athletes prefe...

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2012

Purpose:The effect of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on prerace hydration status and on 20... more Purpose:The effect of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on prerace hydration status and on 2000 m ergometer performance in elite lightweight rowers was examined using a randomized, cross-over, double-blinded design.Methods:To simulate body mass (BM) management strategies common to lightweight rowing, oarsmen reduced BM by approx. 4% in the 24 h preceding the trials, and, in the 2 h before performance, undertook nutritional recovery consisting of mean 43.2 kJ/kg, 2.2 g of CHO per kilogram, 31.8 mg of Na+ per kilogram, 24.3 mL of H2O per kilogram, and NaHCO3 (0.3 g of NaHCO3 per kilogram BM) or placebo (PL; 0.15 g of corn flour per kilogram BM) at 70 to 90 min before racing.Results:At 25 min before performance, NaHCO3 had increased blood pH (7.48 ± 0.02 vs PL: 7.41 ± 0.03, P = .005) and bicarbonate concentrations (29.1 ± 1.8 vs PL: 23.9 ± 1.6 mmol/L, P < .001), whereas BM, urine specific gravity, and plasma volume changes were similar between trials. Rowing ergometer times were...

British journal of sports medicine, 2014

Journal of Eating Disorders, 2015

Nutrients

A questionnaire-based screening tool for male athletes at risk of low energy availability (LEA) c... more A questionnaire-based screening tool for male athletes at risk of low energy availability (LEA) could facilitate both research and clinical practice. The present options rely on proxies for LEA such screening tools for disordered eating, exercise dependence, or those validated in female athlete populations. in which the female-specific sections are excluded. To overcome these limitations and support progress in understanding LEA in males, centres in Australia, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden collaborated to develop a screening tool (LEAM-Q) based on clinical investigations of elite and sub-elite male athletes from multiple countries and ethnicities, and a variety of endurance and weight-sensitive sports. A bank of questions was developed from previously validated questionnaires and expert opinion on various clinical markers of LEA in athletic or eating disorder populations, dizziness, thermoregulation, gastrointestinal symptoms, injury, illness, wellbeing, recovery, sleep and sex drive....

Australian Journal of General Practice, 2020

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2020

The monitoring of body composition is common in sports given the association with performance. Su... more The monitoring of body composition is common in sports given the association with performance. Surface anthropometry is often preferred when monitoring changes for its convenience, practicality, and portability. However, anthropometry does not provide valid estimates of absolute lean tissue in elite athletes. The aim of this investigation was to develop anthropometric models for estimating fat-free mass (FFM) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) using an accepted reference physique assessment technique. Sixty-four athletes across 18 sports underwent surface anthropometry and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessment. Anthropometric models for estimating FFM and SMM were developed using forward selection multiple linear regression analysis and contrasted against previously developed equations. Most anthropometric models under review performed poorly compared with DXA. However, models derived from athletic populations such as the Withers equation demonstrated a stronger correlation ...

Journal of sports science & medicine, 2018

The implications of impact-induced muscle damage (IIMD) that results from participation in contac... more The implications of impact-induced muscle damage (IIMD) that results from participation in contact-sport are not well understood. The purpose of the present study was to implement a novel method of generating IIMD and characterise the implications of this on perceptual, biochemical and exercise performance parameters. Eighteen male recreational contact-sport athletes completed a single-group time series with measures assessed at baseline (PRE) and immediately following (POST) an IIMD protocol, with repeat testing 24, 48, and 72 h following the IIMD protocol. Biochemical indices of muscle damage (myoglobin [Mb]) and inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]), 15 m sprint performance, squat jump peak power (SJ-PP), and perceived soreness were compared to PRE using a one-way (time) repeated measures ANOVA with post-hoc t tests. Speed over 5 and 15 m were impaired for 48 h (7.5 ± 4%, p < 0.01) and SJ-PP was impaired for 48 h following the IIMD protocol (9.5 ±3 %, p &...

BMC geriatrics, Jan 5, 2018

Weight loss interventions have not been advocated for overweight/obese older adults due to potent... more Weight loss interventions have not been advocated for overweight/obese older adults due to potential loss of skeletal muscle and strength impacting on physical function with potential loss of independence. Carotenoids and polyphenols are inversely associated with sarcopenic symptomology. This paper reports the protocol of a study evaluating the efficacy of a high-protein, energy restricted diet rich in carotenoids and polyphenols on body composition, muscle strength, physical performance and quality of life in overweight and obese older adults. This randomised controlled clinical trial will recruit community-dwelling, healthy overweight and obese older adults (≥60 years) for a 12-week weight loss intervention. Seventy-three participants will be recruited and randomized to an energy restricted (~30% restriction), isocaloric diet (30% protein; 30% carbohydrate; 40% fat) enriched with either: a) 375 g/d of high carotenoid vegetables, 300 g/d high carotenoid fruit, and 40-60 ml extra-vi...

The British journal of nutrition, 2017

Two, three and four compartment (2C, 3C and 4C) models of body composition are popular methods to... more Two, three and four compartment (2C, 3C and 4C) models of body composition are popular methods to measure fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) in athletes. However, the impact of food and fluid intake on measurement error has not been established. The purpose of this study was to evaluate standardised (overnight fasted, rested and hydrated) v. non-standardised (afternoon and non-fasted) presentation on technical and biological error on surface anthropometry (SA), 2C, 3C and 4C models. In thirty-two athletic males, measures of SA, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) and air displacement plethysmography (BOD POD) were taken to establish 2C, 3C and 4C models. Tests were conducted after an overnight fast (duplicate), about 7 h later after ad libitum food and fluid intake, and repeated 24 h later before and after ingestion of a specified meal. Magnitudes of changes in the mean and typical errors of measurement were determined. Mean change s...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2010

This study investigated the relationship between changes in upon-waking body mass (BM) and change... more This study investigated the relationship between changes in upon-waking body mass (BM) and changes in urine specific gravity (Usg) and urine color (Ucol) from 1 day to the next. Throughout the 5-day investigation, healthy adolescent Singaporean athletes (n = 66) had their upon-waking, bladder-voided BM measured. A small aliquot of the first bladder void each day was collected and analyzed for Usg and Ucol, the latter by both an investigator (IUcol) and individual participants (SUcol). Results revealed a significant inverse relationship between changes in BM and changes in Usg (p = .003) and Ucol (p = .001). On average, Usg and Ucol changed by ~0.003 units and ~1 color (across a 9-unit scale), respectively, with every 1% change in BM from 1 day to the next. There was a stronger relationship between Usg and IUcol (r = .82, p < .001) than between Usg and SUcol (r = .60, p < .001). These results suggest that the degree of fluid deficit may be predicted from the Usg measurements am...

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2013

Purpose:Appropriate and valid testing protocols for evaluating the physical performances of surfi... more Purpose:Appropriate and valid testing protocols for evaluating the physical performances of surfing athletes are not well refined. The purpose of this project was to develop, refine, and evaluate a testing protocol for use with elite surfers, including measures of anthropometry, strength and power, and endurance.Methods:After pilot testing and consultation with athletes, coaches, and sport scientists, a specific suite of tests was developed. Forty-four competitive junior surfers (16.2 ± 1.3 y, 166.3 ± 7.3 cm, 57.9 ± 8.5 kg) participated in this study involving a within-day repeated-measures analysis, using an elite junior group of 22 international competitors (EJG), to establish reliability of the measures. To reflect validity of the testing measures, a comparison of performance results was then undertaken between the EJG and an age-matched competitive junior group of 22 nationally competitive surfers (CJG).Results:Percent typical error of measurement (%TEM) for primary variables ga...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2013

Research in sports-science disciplines such as sport psychology has demonstrated that practitione... more Research in sports-science disciplines such as sport psychology has demonstrated that practitioners’ physical characteristics influence clients’ perceptions of their effectiveness, potentially mediating the efficacy of subsequent interventions. However, very little research has been directed toward this issue for sports dietitians (SDs), the health professionals whom athletes are likely to engage to assist with manipulation of traits of physique. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to determine whether SDs’ phenotype, specifically body-mass index (BMI), and type of dress influence potential clients’ preference to consult them for dietetic support and if this affects their perceived effectiveness.Methods:One hundred volunteers (mean age 18.7 ± 0 .8 years) all participating in regular competitive sport, classified by gender (male, n = 55, or female, n = 45) and competitive standard (elite/subelite, n = 68, or club/recreational, n = 32) viewed slides representing four conc...

International journal of sports physiology and performance, Jan 27, 2016

It is common for athletes in weight category sports to try to gain a theoretical advantage by com... more It is common for athletes in weight category sports to try to gain a theoretical advantage by competing in weight divisions that are lower than their day-to-day body mass (BM). Weight loss is achieved not only through chronic strategies (body fat losses) but also through acute manipulations prior to weigh-in ("making weight"). Both have performance implications. In this review we focus on Olympic combat sports, noting that the varied nature of regulations surrounding the weigh-in procedures, weight requirements and recovery opportunities among these sports provide opportunity for a wider discussion of factors that can be applied to other weight category sports. We summarise previous literature that has examined the performance effects of "weight making" practices before investigating the physiological nature of these BM losses. Practical recommendations in the form of a decision tree are provided to guide the achievement of acute BM loss while minimising performa...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2015

The three-compartment (3-C) model of physique assessment (fat mass, fat-free mass, water) incorpo... more The three-compartment (3-C) model of physique assessment (fat mass, fat-free mass, water) incorporates total body water (TBW) whereas the two-compartment model (2-C) assumes a TBW of 73.72%. Deuterium dilution (D2O) is the reference method for measuring TBW but is expensive and time consuming. Multifrequency bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS SFB7) estimates TBW instantaneously and claims high precision. Our aim was to compare SFB7 with D2O for estimating TBW in resistance trained males (BMI >25kg/m2). We included TBWBIS estimates in a 3-C model and contrasted this and the 2-C model against the reference 3-C model using TBWD2O. TBW of 29 males (32.4 ± 8.5 years; 183.4 ± 7.2 cm; 92.5 ± 9.9 kg; 27.5 ± 2.6 kg/m2) was measured using SFB7 and D2O. Body density was measured by BODPOD, with body composition calculated using the Siri equation. TBWBIS values were consistent with TBWD2O (SEE = 2.65L; TE = 2.6L) as were %BF values from the 3-C model (BODPOD + TBWBIS) with the 3-C ref...

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2005

Although the body-mass management strategies of athletes in high-participation weight-category sp... more Although the body-mass management strategies of athletes in high-participation weight-category sports such as wrestling have been thoroughly investigated, little is known about such practices among lightweight rowers. This study examined the body-mass management practices of lightweight rowers before competition and compared these with current guidelines of the International Federation of Rowing Association (FISA). Quantification of nutrient intake in the 1-2 h between weigh-in and racing was also sought. Methods: Lightweight rowers (N ϭ 100) competing in a national regatta completed a questionnaire that assessed body-mass management practices during the 4 wk before and throughout a regatta plus recovery strategies after weigh-in. Biochemical data were collected immediately after weigh-in to validate questionnaire responses. Responses were categorized according to gender and age category (Senior B or younger than 23 yr old, i.e., U23, Senior A or OPEN, i.e., open age limit) for competition. Results: Most athletes (male U23 76.5%, OPEN 92.3%; female U23 84.0%, OPEN 94.1%) decreased their body mass in the weeks before the regatta at rates compliant with FISA guidelines. Gradual dieting, fluid restriction, and increased training load were the most popular methods of body-mass management. Although the importance of recovery after weigh-in was recognized by athletes, nutrient intake and especially sodium (male U23 5.3 Ϯ 4.9, OPEN 7.7 Ϯ 5.9; female U23 5.7 Ϯ 6.8, OPEN 10.2 Ϯ 5.4 mg•kg Ϫ1) and fluid intake (male U23 12.1 Ϯ 7.1, OPEN 13.5 Ϯ 8.1; female U23 9.4 Ϯ 7.4, OPEN 14.8 Ϯ 6.9 mL•kg Ϫ1) were below current sports nutrition recommendations. Conclusion: Few rowers were natural lightweights; the majority reduced their body mass in the weeks before a regatta. Nutritional recovery strategies implemented by lightweight rowers after weigh-in were not consistent with current guidelines.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2007

The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of different nutritional recovery s... more The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of different nutritional recovery strategies between weigh-in and racing on 2000-m rowing ergometer performance among oarsmen undertaking short-term weight loss before competition. Methods: Competitive rowers (N = 12) completed four ergometer trials, each separated by 48 h. No weight restrictions were imposed for the first trial (TR1). Thereafter, athletes were required to reduce their body mass by 5.2% in the 24 h before trial 2 (TR2), again reaching this body mass before the final two trials (TR3 and TR4). Athletes were provided with one of three nutritional recovery strategies in the 2 h between weighin and racing in a counterbalanced fashion according to a Latin square design: fluid (2.8 kJIkg j1 , 0.0 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 0.6 mgIkg j1 sodium, 28.5 mLIkg j1 fluid; FLU), carbohydrate/sodium (45.3 kJIkg j1 , 2.2 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 32.9 mgIkg j1 sodium, 7.2 mLIkg j1 fluid; CHO), and a combination of water and carbohydrate/sodium (44.8 kJIkg j1 , 2.3 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 33 mgIkg j1 sodium, 28.5 mLIkg j1 fluid; COM). Results: Performance was slower for CHO compared with both COM (mean difference, 4.13; 95% CI, 1.37-6.88 s; P = 0.003) and FLU (2.88; 95% CI, 0.13-5.63 s; P = 0.039). However, FLU was not significantly slower than COM (1.24; 95% CI, j1.41 to 3.90 s; P = 0.474). Conclusions: The present investigation has shown that although carbohydrate and sodium intake may be important in the recovery period between weigh-in and 2000-m rowing ergometer performance, fluid intake has a greater influence on performance among lightweight male rowers who undertake short-term weight loss to achieve specified body-mass limits.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2005

The impact of acute weight loss on rowing performance was assessed when generous nutrient intake ... more The impact of acute weight loss on rowing performance was assessed when generous nutrient intake was provided in 2 h of recovery after making weight. Methods: Competitive rowers (N ϭ 17) completed four ergometer trials, each separated by 48 h. Two trials were performed after a 4% body mass loss in the previous 24 h (WT) and two were performed after no weight restrictions, that is, unrestricted (UNR). In addition, two trials (1 ϫ WT, 1 ϫ UNR) were in a thermoneutral environment (NEUTRAL, mean 21.1 Ϯ SD 0.7°C, 29.0 Ϯ 4.5% RH) and two were in the heat (HOT 32.4, Ϯ 0.4°C, 60.4 Ϯ 2.7% RH). Trials were performed in a counterbalanced fashion according to a Latin square design. Aggressive nutritional recovery strategies (WT 2.3 g•kg Ϫ1 carbohydrate, 34 mg•kg Ϫ1 Na, 28.4 mL•kg Ϫ1 fluid; UNR ad libitum) were employed in the 2 h after weigh-in. Results: Both WT (mean 2.1, 95% CI 0.7-3.4 s; P ϭ 0.003) and HOT (4.1, 2.7-5.4 s; P Ͻ 0.001) compromised 2000-m time-trial performance. Whereas WT resulted in hypohydration, the associated reduction in plasma volume explained only part of the performance compromise observed (0.2 s for every 1% decrement) Moreover, WT did not influence core temperature or indices of cardiovascular function. Conclusions: Acute weight loss compromised performance, despite generous nutrient intake in recovery, although the effect was small. Performance decrements were further exacerbated when exercise was performed in the heat.

Additional resources to support the content in Best Practice Protocols for Physique Assessment in... more Additional resources to support the content in Best Practice Protocols for Physique Assessment in Sport are available at the J.E. Lindsay Carter Kinanthropometry Clinic and Archive (JELCKCA) website jelckca-bodycomp.com, which links you to the YouTube channel http://tinyurl.com/YouTubeChannel-ProfPatria. YouTube videos include introduction of experts and their background in physique assessment, demonstration of physique assessment procedures and commentary from experts on issues related to physique assessment. The physical kinanthropometry archive is located at the Auckland University of Technology Millennium precinct in Auckland, New Zealand.

Nutrients

Nutrition education (NE) is one of several strategies aimed at enhancing the dietary intake of at... more Nutrition education (NE) is one of several strategies aimed at enhancing the dietary intake of athletes. This study investigated NE preferences of New Zealand and Australian athletes competing nationally and internationally. Athletes (n = 124, 22 (18, 27) years, female 54.8%) from 22 sports completed an online survey, with responses analysed using descriptive statistics. Teaching techniques considered ‘extremely effective’ were life examples (47.6% of athletes), hands-on activities (30.6%), and discussions with a facilitator (30.6%). Setting personal nutrition goals was important to most athletes (83.9%), along with two-way feedback with a facilitator (75.0%). General nutrition topics considered ‘essential’ were energy requirements (52.9%), hydration (52.9%), and nutrient deficiencies (43.3%). Performance topics considered ‘essential’ were recovery (58.1%), pre-exercise nutrition (51.6%), nutrition during exercise (50.0%), and energy requirements for training (49.2%). Athletes prefe...

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2012

Purpose:The effect of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on prerace hydration status and on 20... more Purpose:The effect of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on prerace hydration status and on 2000 m ergometer performance in elite lightweight rowers was examined using a randomized, cross-over, double-blinded design.Methods:To simulate body mass (BM) management strategies common to lightweight rowing, oarsmen reduced BM by approx. 4% in the 24 h preceding the trials, and, in the 2 h before performance, undertook nutritional recovery consisting of mean 43.2 kJ/kg, 2.2 g of CHO per kilogram, 31.8 mg of Na+ per kilogram, 24.3 mL of H2O per kilogram, and NaHCO3 (0.3 g of NaHCO3 per kilogram BM) or placebo (PL; 0.15 g of corn flour per kilogram BM) at 70 to 90 min before racing.Results:At 25 min before performance, NaHCO3 had increased blood pH (7.48 ± 0.02 vs PL: 7.41 ± 0.03, P = .005) and bicarbonate concentrations (29.1 ± 1.8 vs PL: 23.9 ± 1.6 mmol/L, P < .001), whereas BM, urine specific gravity, and plasma volume changes were similar between trials. Rowing ergometer times were...

British journal of sports medicine, 2014

Journal of Eating Disorders, 2015

Nutrients

A questionnaire-based screening tool for male athletes at risk of low energy availability (LEA) c... more A questionnaire-based screening tool for male athletes at risk of low energy availability (LEA) could facilitate both research and clinical practice. The present options rely on proxies for LEA such screening tools for disordered eating, exercise dependence, or those validated in female athlete populations. in which the female-specific sections are excluded. To overcome these limitations and support progress in understanding LEA in males, centres in Australia, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden collaborated to develop a screening tool (LEAM-Q) based on clinical investigations of elite and sub-elite male athletes from multiple countries and ethnicities, and a variety of endurance and weight-sensitive sports. A bank of questions was developed from previously validated questionnaires and expert opinion on various clinical markers of LEA in athletic or eating disorder populations, dizziness, thermoregulation, gastrointestinal symptoms, injury, illness, wellbeing, recovery, sleep and sex drive....

Australian Journal of General Practice, 2020

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2020

The monitoring of body composition is common in sports given the association with performance. Su... more The monitoring of body composition is common in sports given the association with performance. Surface anthropometry is often preferred when monitoring changes for its convenience, practicality, and portability. However, anthropometry does not provide valid estimates of absolute lean tissue in elite athletes. The aim of this investigation was to develop anthropometric models for estimating fat-free mass (FFM) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) using an accepted reference physique assessment technique. Sixty-four athletes across 18 sports underwent surface anthropometry and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessment. Anthropometric models for estimating FFM and SMM were developed using forward selection multiple linear regression analysis and contrasted against previously developed equations. Most anthropometric models under review performed poorly compared with DXA. However, models derived from athletic populations such as the Withers equation demonstrated a stronger correlation ...

Journal of sports science & medicine, 2018

The implications of impact-induced muscle damage (IIMD) that results from participation in contac... more The implications of impact-induced muscle damage (IIMD) that results from participation in contact-sport are not well understood. The purpose of the present study was to implement a novel method of generating IIMD and characterise the implications of this on perceptual, biochemical and exercise performance parameters. Eighteen male recreational contact-sport athletes completed a single-group time series with measures assessed at baseline (PRE) and immediately following (POST) an IIMD protocol, with repeat testing 24, 48, and 72 h following the IIMD protocol. Biochemical indices of muscle damage (myoglobin [Mb]) and inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]), 15 m sprint performance, squat jump peak power (SJ-PP), and perceived soreness were compared to PRE using a one-way (time) repeated measures ANOVA with post-hoc t tests. Speed over 5 and 15 m were impaired for 48 h (7.5 ± 4%, p < 0.01) and SJ-PP was impaired for 48 h following the IIMD protocol (9.5 ±3 %, p &...

BMC geriatrics, Jan 5, 2018

Weight loss interventions have not been advocated for overweight/obese older adults due to potent... more Weight loss interventions have not been advocated for overweight/obese older adults due to potential loss of skeletal muscle and strength impacting on physical function with potential loss of independence. Carotenoids and polyphenols are inversely associated with sarcopenic symptomology. This paper reports the protocol of a study evaluating the efficacy of a high-protein, energy restricted diet rich in carotenoids and polyphenols on body composition, muscle strength, physical performance and quality of life in overweight and obese older adults. This randomised controlled clinical trial will recruit community-dwelling, healthy overweight and obese older adults (≥60 years) for a 12-week weight loss intervention. Seventy-three participants will be recruited and randomized to an energy restricted (~30% restriction), isocaloric diet (30% protein; 30% carbohydrate; 40% fat) enriched with either: a) 375 g/d of high carotenoid vegetables, 300 g/d high carotenoid fruit, and 40-60 ml extra-vi...

The British journal of nutrition, 2017

Two, three and four compartment (2C, 3C and 4C) models of body composition are popular methods to... more Two, three and four compartment (2C, 3C and 4C) models of body composition are popular methods to measure fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) in athletes. However, the impact of food and fluid intake on measurement error has not been established. The purpose of this study was to evaluate standardised (overnight fasted, rested and hydrated) v. non-standardised (afternoon and non-fasted) presentation on technical and biological error on surface anthropometry (SA), 2C, 3C and 4C models. In thirty-two athletic males, measures of SA, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) and air displacement plethysmography (BOD POD) were taken to establish 2C, 3C and 4C models. Tests were conducted after an overnight fast (duplicate), about 7 h later after ad libitum food and fluid intake, and repeated 24 h later before and after ingestion of a specified meal. Magnitudes of changes in the mean and typical errors of measurement were determined. Mean change s...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2010

This study investigated the relationship between changes in upon-waking body mass (BM) and change... more This study investigated the relationship between changes in upon-waking body mass (BM) and changes in urine specific gravity (Usg) and urine color (Ucol) from 1 day to the next. Throughout the 5-day investigation, healthy adolescent Singaporean athletes (n = 66) had their upon-waking, bladder-voided BM measured. A small aliquot of the first bladder void each day was collected and analyzed for Usg and Ucol, the latter by both an investigator (IUcol) and individual participants (SUcol). Results revealed a significant inverse relationship between changes in BM and changes in Usg (p = .003) and Ucol (p = .001). On average, Usg and Ucol changed by ~0.003 units and ~1 color (across a 9-unit scale), respectively, with every 1% change in BM from 1 day to the next. There was a stronger relationship between Usg and IUcol (r = .82, p < .001) than between Usg and SUcol (r = .60, p < .001). These results suggest that the degree of fluid deficit may be predicted from the Usg measurements am...

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2013

Purpose:Appropriate and valid testing protocols for evaluating the physical performances of surfi... more Purpose:Appropriate and valid testing protocols for evaluating the physical performances of surfing athletes are not well refined. The purpose of this project was to develop, refine, and evaluate a testing protocol for use with elite surfers, including measures of anthropometry, strength and power, and endurance.Methods:After pilot testing and consultation with athletes, coaches, and sport scientists, a specific suite of tests was developed. Forty-four competitive junior surfers (16.2 ± 1.3 y, 166.3 ± 7.3 cm, 57.9 ± 8.5 kg) participated in this study involving a within-day repeated-measures analysis, using an elite junior group of 22 international competitors (EJG), to establish reliability of the measures. To reflect validity of the testing measures, a comparison of performance results was then undertaken between the EJG and an age-matched competitive junior group of 22 nationally competitive surfers (CJG).Results:Percent typical error of measurement (%TEM) for primary variables ga...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2013

Research in sports-science disciplines such as sport psychology has demonstrated that practitione... more Research in sports-science disciplines such as sport psychology has demonstrated that practitioners’ physical characteristics influence clients’ perceptions of their effectiveness, potentially mediating the efficacy of subsequent interventions. However, very little research has been directed toward this issue for sports dietitians (SDs), the health professionals whom athletes are likely to engage to assist with manipulation of traits of physique. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to determine whether SDs’ phenotype, specifically body-mass index (BMI), and type of dress influence potential clients’ preference to consult them for dietetic support and if this affects their perceived effectiveness.Methods:One hundred volunteers (mean age 18.7 ± 0 .8 years) all participating in regular competitive sport, classified by gender (male, n = 55, or female, n = 45) and competitive standard (elite/subelite, n = 68, or club/recreational, n = 32) viewed slides representing four conc...

International journal of sports physiology and performance, Jan 27, 2016

It is common for athletes in weight category sports to try to gain a theoretical advantage by com... more It is common for athletes in weight category sports to try to gain a theoretical advantage by competing in weight divisions that are lower than their day-to-day body mass (BM). Weight loss is achieved not only through chronic strategies (body fat losses) but also through acute manipulations prior to weigh-in ("making weight"). Both have performance implications. In this review we focus on Olympic combat sports, noting that the varied nature of regulations surrounding the weigh-in procedures, weight requirements and recovery opportunities among these sports provide opportunity for a wider discussion of factors that can be applied to other weight category sports. We summarise previous literature that has examined the performance effects of "weight making" practices before investigating the physiological nature of these BM losses. Practical recommendations in the form of a decision tree are provided to guide the achievement of acute BM loss while minimising performa...

International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 2015

The three-compartment (3-C) model of physique assessment (fat mass, fat-free mass, water) incorpo... more The three-compartment (3-C) model of physique assessment (fat mass, fat-free mass, water) incorporates total body water (TBW) whereas the two-compartment model (2-C) assumes a TBW of 73.72%. Deuterium dilution (D2O) is the reference method for measuring TBW but is expensive and time consuming. Multifrequency bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS SFB7) estimates TBW instantaneously and claims high precision. Our aim was to compare SFB7 with D2O for estimating TBW in resistance trained males (BMI >25kg/m2). We included TBWBIS estimates in a 3-C model and contrasted this and the 2-C model against the reference 3-C model using TBWD2O. TBW of 29 males (32.4 ± 8.5 years; 183.4 ± 7.2 cm; 92.5 ± 9.9 kg; 27.5 ± 2.6 kg/m2) was measured using SFB7 and D2O. Body density was measured by BODPOD, with body composition calculated using the Siri equation. TBWBIS values were consistent with TBWD2O (SEE = 2.65L; TE = 2.6L) as were %BF values from the 3-C model (BODPOD + TBWBIS) with the 3-C ref...

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2005

Although the body-mass management strategies of athletes in high-participation weight-category sp... more Although the body-mass management strategies of athletes in high-participation weight-category sports such as wrestling have been thoroughly investigated, little is known about such practices among lightweight rowers. This study examined the body-mass management practices of lightweight rowers before competition and compared these with current guidelines of the International Federation of Rowing Association (FISA). Quantification of nutrient intake in the 1-2 h between weigh-in and racing was also sought. Methods: Lightweight rowers (N ϭ 100) competing in a national regatta completed a questionnaire that assessed body-mass management practices during the 4 wk before and throughout a regatta plus recovery strategies after weigh-in. Biochemical data were collected immediately after weigh-in to validate questionnaire responses. Responses were categorized according to gender and age category (Senior B or younger than 23 yr old, i.e., U23, Senior A or OPEN, i.e., open age limit) for competition. Results: Most athletes (male U23 76.5%, OPEN 92.3%; female U23 84.0%, OPEN 94.1%) decreased their body mass in the weeks before the regatta at rates compliant with FISA guidelines. Gradual dieting, fluid restriction, and increased training load were the most popular methods of body-mass management. Although the importance of recovery after weigh-in was recognized by athletes, nutrient intake and especially sodium (male U23 5.3 Ϯ 4.9, OPEN 7.7 Ϯ 5.9; female U23 5.7 Ϯ 6.8, OPEN 10.2 Ϯ 5.4 mg•kg Ϫ1) and fluid intake (male U23 12.1 Ϯ 7.1, OPEN 13.5 Ϯ 8.1; female U23 9.4 Ϯ 7.4, OPEN 14.8 Ϯ 6.9 mL•kg Ϫ1) were below current sports nutrition recommendations. Conclusion: Few rowers were natural lightweights; the majority reduced their body mass in the weeks before a regatta. Nutritional recovery strategies implemented by lightweight rowers after weigh-in were not consistent with current guidelines.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2007

The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of different nutritional recovery s... more The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of different nutritional recovery strategies between weigh-in and racing on 2000-m rowing ergometer performance among oarsmen undertaking short-term weight loss before competition. Methods: Competitive rowers (N = 12) completed four ergometer trials, each separated by 48 h. No weight restrictions were imposed for the first trial (TR1). Thereafter, athletes were required to reduce their body mass by 5.2% in the 24 h before trial 2 (TR2), again reaching this body mass before the final two trials (TR3 and TR4). Athletes were provided with one of three nutritional recovery strategies in the 2 h between weighin and racing in a counterbalanced fashion according to a Latin square design: fluid (2.8 kJIkg j1 , 0.0 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 0.6 mgIkg j1 sodium, 28.5 mLIkg j1 fluid; FLU), carbohydrate/sodium (45.3 kJIkg j1 , 2.2 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 32.9 mgIkg j1 sodium, 7.2 mLIkg j1 fluid; CHO), and a combination of water and carbohydrate/sodium (44.8 kJIkg j1 , 2.3 gIkg j1 carbohydrate, 33 mgIkg j1 sodium, 28.5 mLIkg j1 fluid; COM). Results: Performance was slower for CHO compared with both COM (mean difference, 4.13; 95% CI, 1.37-6.88 s; P = 0.003) and FLU (2.88; 95% CI, 0.13-5.63 s; P = 0.039). However, FLU was not significantly slower than COM (1.24; 95% CI, j1.41 to 3.90 s; P = 0.474). Conclusions: The present investigation has shown that although carbohydrate and sodium intake may be important in the recovery period between weigh-in and 2000-m rowing ergometer performance, fluid intake has a greater influence on performance among lightweight male rowers who undertake short-term weight loss to achieve specified body-mass limits.

Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2005

The impact of acute weight loss on rowing performance was assessed when generous nutrient intake ... more The impact of acute weight loss on rowing performance was assessed when generous nutrient intake was provided in 2 h of recovery after making weight. Methods: Competitive rowers (N ϭ 17) completed four ergometer trials, each separated by 48 h. Two trials were performed after a 4% body mass loss in the previous 24 h (WT) and two were performed after no weight restrictions, that is, unrestricted (UNR). In addition, two trials (1 ϫ WT, 1 ϫ UNR) were in a thermoneutral environment (NEUTRAL, mean 21.1 Ϯ SD 0.7°C, 29.0 Ϯ 4.5% RH) and two were in the heat (HOT 32.4, Ϯ 0.4°C, 60.4 Ϯ 2.7% RH). Trials were performed in a counterbalanced fashion according to a Latin square design. Aggressive nutritional recovery strategies (WT 2.3 g•kg Ϫ1 carbohydrate, 34 mg•kg Ϫ1 Na, 28.4 mL•kg Ϫ1 fluid; UNR ad libitum) were employed in the 2 h after weigh-in. Results: Both WT (mean 2.1, 95% CI 0.7-3.4 s; P ϭ 0.003) and HOT (4.1, 2.7-5.4 s; P Ͻ 0.001) compromised 2000-m time-trial performance. Whereas WT resulted in hypohydration, the associated reduction in plasma volume explained only part of the performance compromise observed (0.2 s for every 1% decrement) Moreover, WT did not influence core temperature or indices of cardiovascular function. Conclusions: Acute weight loss compromised performance, despite generous nutrient intake in recovery, although the effect was small. Performance decrements were further exacerbated when exercise was performed in the heat.