Longitudinal analysis of body composition in Italian national U17 male handball players using bioelectrical impedance vector analysis

The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness 2026

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Authors: Sofia Serafini, Olga Papale, Andrea Di Credico, Andrea Fusco, Gabriele Mascherini, Pascal Izzicupo
DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.25.17440-9
Cited by: 0

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Monitoring body composition is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing injuries in young athletes during a competitive season. This study evaluated changes in body composition and bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) in 15 male U17 Italian national handball players (age: 16.44±0.60 years). METHODS: Bioelectrical parameters were analyzed across four time points: end of the season (T0), pre-season (T1), season onset (T2), and winter break (T3), using repeated measures mixed models, while Mahalanobis' tests track vector shifts and ellipse distances (D). Statistical significance was set at P

Fields of Study & Subjects

Body Composition Measurement Techniques Sports Performance and Training Physical Education and Training Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
Volume
66
Issue
3
Pages
393–399
Publication date
20 January 2026
Language
EN