Use of supplements, body composition and physical performance in first division soccer players of the National Club in 2023

Abstract

Objective: To describe supplement use, body composition, and physical performance in first division soccer players from the Nacional club in 2023. Methodology: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted involving 33 players with an average age of 25.2 years. A digital interview survey was conducted with three sections: sociodemographic data, supplement use, and physical activity. Body composition data were also recorded using the Indody bioimpedance scale. Results: 12.1% (n=4) were goalkeepers, 21.2% (n=7) were defenders, 18.2% (n=6) were forwards, and 48.5% (n=16) were midfielders. It was found that 51.5% (n=17) did not consume supplements, while 48.5% (n=16) did. 93.8% (n=15) consumed protein supplements, while 62.5% of the players consumed creatine. 56.3% (n=9) reported having consumed supplements for greater athletic performance, 43.8% (n=7) for better muscle development. Regarding the type of physical activity, the frequency of technical exercises was first analyzed, with 63.6% (n=21) reporting doing them six times a week. Secondly, the frequency of resistance-type exercises was analyzed, with 24.2% (n=8) reporting doing them twice a week and 39.4% (n=13) reporting doing them six times a week. The frequency of bodybuilding exercises was reported by 24.2% (n=8) to do it three times a week and 51.5% (n=17) six times a week. In terms of weight, 72.7% (n=24) were of normal weight, on the other hand, 27.3% (n=9) were of high weight, including 75% of the goalkeepers (n=3). In terms of fat percentage, 87.9% (n=29) of the players had a normal fat percentage. 6.1% (n=2) had a low fat percentage, of which 16.7% (n=1) were forwards and 6.3% (n=1) were midfielders. It was found that 6.1% (n=2) had a high fat percentage, of which the total 12.5% (n=2) were midfielders. Regarding total lean mass classification, 69.7% (n=23) had a high percentage of lean mass, of which midfielders had 75% (n=12), goalkeepers 75% (n=3), defenders 71.4% (n=4), and forwards 50% (n=3). On the other hand, 30.3% (n=10) had a normal percentage of lean mass, most of whom were forwards with 50% (n=3). Conclusion: Regarding the relationship between supplement use, body composition, and physical performance, a correlation was found between supplement use, high lean mass, and improved performance.