Bone Mineral Density in Middle-Aged Former Sprinters and Middle-Aged Active Men

The purpose of this study was to compare bone health parameters (whole body bone mineral content [WB BMC], lumbar spine bone mineral density [L1-L4 BMD], total hip bone mineral density [TH BMD] and forearm BMD) in middle-aged men who are active (n = 22) and middle-aged men who are former sprinters (n = 22). 44 middle-aged men participated in the study; the age range was 40 to 50 years. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to evaluate body composition and BMD values. Physical performance tests were used to evaluate vertical jump (VJ), horizontal jump (HJ), triple jump (TJ), maximal squat strength (1-RM squat), maximal bench press strength (1-RM bench press), maximal deadlift strength (1-RM deadlift), sprinting performance (20 m), and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max, L/min). Maximal strength variables, lean mass and bone parameters were not different between two groups. Jumping performances, sprinting performance and VO2 max were greater in former sprinters compared to men who are active. After adjustment for body weight, age, total physical activity and intense physical activity, former sprinters exhibited greater WB BMC values compared to active men. The current study suggests that former sprinting practice is associated with greater bone mass in middle-aged men.