Características Antropométricas y la Ingesta Dietética de los Jugadores de la División de Honor y División de Honor B de un Club de Rugby Español

Abstract

This study aimed to associate the anthropometrical characteristics of the playing position and category level and to compare their dietary intake with the requirements of a Spanish Rugby Club. Altogether, 53 Rugby Union players of the Honor Division (28) and Honor Division B (25) underwent measurements of standard to estimate lean mass, fat mass, and muscle mass. A 24-hour recall of the dietary intake was also performed, all measurements were taken once. Findings identified Honor Division players had significantly higher values on age body mass, muscle mass (kg) and lean body mass, due to normal adaptations related to maturation and development. Regarding the position we found a significant effect on height, body mass, BMI, sum of skinfolds, body fat (%), muscle mass (%), muscle mass (kg) and lean body mass was found, being Forwards taller, heavier and with larger amounts of muscle and body fat due to the physical demands of each playing position. The energy and carbohydrates intake fail to fulfill the dietary recommendation; however, protein intake was above the recommended values. These findings may provide reference data for future research with Rugby Union players by level and position, as well as for trainers, physical trainers, and nutritionists on the body composition and dietary intake of the players.