Abstract:Introduction: Proper nutrition periodization optimizes athletic performance through strategic nutrient adjustments. Off-season focuses on balanced macronutrients for recovery, while pre-competition and competition phases emphasize timing, increased carbs, and optimized protein intake for exercise fueling, recovery, and enhanced performance. This study aimed to compare the adequacy of energy and macronutrient intakes of athletes involved in martial arts vs. football during, pre and post-competition phases.
Methodology: An observational study with 85 Indian athletes aged 15 to 25 from football and martial arts academies utilized personal interviews, questionnaires, and measurements to gather data on training, diet, and physical activity. Four detailed 24-hour diet recall was taken throughout the entire study. Data analysis involved statistical methods such as ANOVA, t-tests, independent tests, and Chi-square testing in SPSS, using a standardized kit and WhatsApp for dietary recall.
Results: Martial arts athletes had higher body fat percentages (20.2±7.4) (p=0.062), significantly lower total body water percentages (58.3±5.4) (p=0.007), and higher exercise energy expenditure (2382±1204.5) (p=0.000) compared to football players. Martial arts athletes exhibited lower energy availability (-7.0±26.6) (p=0.001) compared to football players. Only mixed martial arts from the martial arts group had a positive energy balance (2.2±29.8) and the goalkeeper from the football group had a negative energy balance (-12±39.5). The adequacy of carbohydrates was very low in both groups.
Conclusion: Football athletes had better adequacy as compared to martial arts athletes pre, during, and post-competition phases.
Other Journals