SHORT COMMUNICATION
Strength training and diet supplementation in the Polish Army on the example of a selected unit
More details
Hide details
1
Institute of Plant Genetics, Breeding and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland
2
Department of Biotechnology, Human Nutrition and Commodity Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Poland.
3
Department of Allergology and Environmental Hazards, Institute of Rural Health in Lublin, Poland.
4
Department of Biotechnology, Human Nutrition and Food Commodity Science, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland
Corresponding author
Marta Tomczyńska-Mleko
Tomczyńska-Mleko, Institute of Plant Genetics,Breeding and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland
J Pre Clin Clin Res. 2013;7(2):124-128
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
of this article was to determine strength training practices and the intake of supplements by Polish Army soldiers. Attitudes toward physical fitness and the level of dietary knowledge among the soldiers were also examined.
Methods. The soldiers (N=82) voluntarily participated in an anonymous survey.
Results. The majority of participants take care of their bodies thanks to sport practice. They trained mainly 3–4 times a week. The results showed that the soldiers had good knowledge about strength training, and were aware that overtraining can induce dangerous consequences. All of the respondents regularly bought supplements because of their composition. Interestingly, no one reported buying creatine or free amino acids. Probably, the respondents were not aware that creatine is considered as the best, legal anabolic compound in use. The soldiers choose mainly protein and protein-carbohydrate supplements, mostly purchased in Internet shops (65%) and special nutrition shops (20%). During the training, most of the soldiers (90%) drank only natural, mineral water, and 10% used isotonic drinks. 40% of respondents compose the diet by themselves, using the Internet, and only 23% follow the advices of their coach.
Conclusions. The presented research shows that soldiers in general are well informed that they need strength training and how to train. However, they should be better educated about how to supplement their diet.
REFERENCES (13)
1.
Kimura K, Obuchi S, Arai T, Nagasawa H, Shiba Y, Watanabe S, Kojima M. The Influence of Short-term Strength Training on Health-related Quality of Life and Executive Cognitive Function. J Physiol Anthropol. 2010; 29: 95–101.
2.
Chevan J. Demographic Determinants of Participation in Strength Training Activities among U. S. Adults. J Strength Cond Res. 2008; 22(2): 553–558.
3.
Thomas JL, Adler AB, Wittels P, Enne R, Johannes B. Comparing Elite Soldiers’ Perceptions of Psychological and Physical Demands during Military Training. Milit Med. 2004; 169(7): 526–530.
4.
Jones BH, Knapik JJ. Physical Training and Exercise-Related Injuries.Sports Med. 1999; 27(2): 111–125.
5.
McCreary DR, Sasse DK. An Exploration of the Drive for Muscularity in Adolescent Boys and Girls. J Am Coll Health. 2000; 48: 297–304.
6.
Burke LM. Nutritional Practices of Male and Female Endurance Cyclists. Sports Med. 2001; 31(7): 521–532.
7.
Stanton R. Creatine monohydrate use among elite Australian power lifters. J Strength Cond Res. 2000; 14(3): 322–327.
8.
Duellman MC, Lukaszuk JM, Prawitz AD, Brandenburg JP. Protein Supplement Users Among High School Athletes Have Misconceptions about Effectiveness. J Strength Cond Res. 2008; 22(4): 1124–1129.
9.
Lemon PW. Effect of exercise on protein requirements. J Sports Sci 1999; 9: 53–70.
10.
Burke LM, Cox GR, Cummings NK, Desbrow B. Guidelines for Daily Carbohydrate Intake. Sports Med. 2001; 31(4): 267–299.
11.
McClung JP, Karl JP, Cable SJ, Williams KW, Nindl BC, Young AJ, Lieberman HR. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of iron supplementation in female soldiers during military training: effects on iron status, physical performance, and mood. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009; 90: 124–31.
12.
Montain SJ, Latzka WA, Sawka MN. Fluid Replacement Recommendations for Training in Hot Weather. Milit Med. 1999; 164(7): 502–508.
13.
Lalich RA. An Initiative to Retain Reserve Soldiers Failing To Meet Weight and Physical Fitness Standards: The Wisconsin Army Nationalm Guard Experience. Milit Med. 2001; 166(3): 204–207.