Association of Body Composition, Growth, and Maturation Status With Physical Activity and Adherence to Mediterranean Diet in Youth Triathletes

What this Trial Is About

This observational study explores how physical activity levels and adherence to a Mediterranean diet relate to body composition, growth, and maturation in young triathletes aged 5 to 17 years. It aims to determine whether body fat and muscle composition are more influenced by biological growth and maturation or by lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. Triathlon combines swimming, cycling, and running, making body composition and nutrition important for performance and health during youth development. Participants include young male and female triathletes who have been previously assessed for body composition, diet adherence, and physical activity over three years. The Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits, is monitored alongside physical activity to understand their combined effect on biological maturation and athletic performance in this group. Throughout the study, researchers track changes in body composition, physical activity levels, diet adherence, and maturation status over five years. Data collection involves evaluations of body fat and muscle, diet patterns, and growth stages to assess how these factors interact. This long-term observation helps clarify the role of lifestyle and growth in shaping young athletes' health and performance.

Body Composition, Growth, and Maturation of Triathletes