The Application of Heavy Strength Training in Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport

Abstract

A combination of high levels of physical activity, low sex hormone concentrations and subsequent low bone mineral density is commonplace in athletic populations. Low bone mineral density can lead to an increased risk of stress reactions or fractures, which can significantly reduce sport participation time. The use of heavy strength training has been effective at increasing bone mineral density in older, frail osteoporotic populations, and there is evidence that it would also be effective in athletic populations with low bone density. In addition to potentially reducing the risk of stress reactions and fractures, heavy strength training may be beneficial for endurance performance, including when being used as a replacement for some of the endurance activities. Thus, individuals exhibiting symptoms associated with the Female Athlete Triad, the Exercise Hypogondal Male Condition or Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports should consider implementing heavy strength training as part of their exercise regimen.

Low Energy Availability in Athletes

“…Examples of these interventions and proposed mechanisms of action are highlighted in Table 2. In addition to these nutritional interventions, athletes with compromised bone health may also consider including mechanical bone stress, such as strength or resistance exercise, within their training program to increase BMD 33 . Replacing energetically demanding aerobic exercise sessions with less energetically demanding strength or resistance training sessions may also aid in the recovery process by decreasing exercise energy expenditure and, in turn, increasing energy availability 34 .…”

“…In addition to these nutritional interventions, athletes with compromised bone health may also consider including mechanical bone stress, such as strength or resistance exercise, their training program to increase BMD. 33 Replacing energetically demanding aerobic exercise sessions with less energetically demanding strength or resistance training sessions may also aid in the recovery process by decreasing exercise energy expenditure and, in turn, increasing energy availability. 34 Finally, athletes may benefit from the inclusion of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, to address psychogenic stress that may be contributing to LEA and to assist athletes in making behavioral changes.…”