Physical characteristics and dietary intake of Malaysian national basketball players

Abstract

A review of the literature indicated that no research has been conducted on the physical characteristics and dietary intake of Malaysian national basketball players. Information on physical characteristics and food intake of 11 male and 13 female Malaysian national basketball players were obtained during centralised training. Weight and height were measured using the SECA beam balance with height attachment. Skinfold thickness was measured using the Harpenden calipers at 4 sites (biceps, criceps, subscapular and suprailiac). The percentage of body fat was calculated from the sum of the 4 skin fold thickness measurements. Food intake was recorded as a mean of 3-days weighed food intake and the nutrient contents were calculated using a local food composition cable. Based on weight and height (BMI), most of the male subjects (82%) and all female subjects (100%) were classified as normal (BMI 20.0- 25.0). The percentage average body fat for male and female athletes were 14. I ±2.3% and 25.6 ± 4.7%, respectively. The mean daily energy intake for male subjects was 3671 ± 291 kcal or 81 % of Malaysian RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowances) adjusted for athletes. The mean percentage contribution of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrate were 16%, 27% and 57%, respectively.