Changes in body composition and handgrip strength of sports science students in the context of summer break

Purpose: The phenomenon of reduced physical activity during the summer holidays and the resulting adverse changes in body composition is addressed in the public health literature. This phenomenon in relation to university students has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of summer break on body composition and handgrip strength in sports science students. Methods: Forty-seven male students of the Faculty of Sports Science participated in the first examination conducted in mid- June. Thirty-eight students aged 21.2± .6 years participated in the second examination in early October. Body composition was determined with bioelectrical impedance analysis (Tanita BC 418 MA). Handgrip strength was assessed with a bulb dynamometer. Students were also questioned about physical activity undertaken during the academic year and during summer holidays. Results: None of the body composition parameters changed significantly in examined students after the summer break (P> .05). Handgrip strength increased significantly after summer holidays (P= .01, d= .423). Body weight, muscle mass, and basal metabolic rate were strongly correlated with handgrip strength after the summer break (R>. 50, P< .05). Number of days devoted to intensive and moderate physical activity decreased substantially during the summertime compared with academic year (P< .00, d= .620 and P< .00, d= .771, respectively). Conclusions: Despite a reduction in physical activity levels during the summer break, body composition parameters did not change significantly in sports science students. Further research should consider more detailed characteristics of students' physical activity during the summer break.