Thoracic Gas Volume in Athletes and Non-Athletes

The purpose of this study was to analyze the predicted thoracic gas volume versus measured thoracic gas volume in college students, comparing NCAA collegiate athletes versus non-athletes using the Bod Pod. Forty-four college students, both males and females, athletes and non-athletes, completed a body composition test to obtain the predicted thoracic gas volume. The participants were then instructed by the Bod Pod software through the measured thoracic gas volume test. Due to low statistical power, the athletes and non-athletes were unable to be compared, however, results of a two sample t-test showed that there was a statistically significant difference between measured thoracic gas volume and predicted thoracic gas volume within the population as a whole. The average predicted thoracic gas volume was 3.66 liters ± 0.103 while the measured thoracic gas volume was 4.02 liters ± 0.165. The significance statistical p value was measured at p ≤ 0.001. Therefore, we concluded there was a significant difference between the predicted and measured thoracic gas volumes of the population. INTRODUCTION Body composition in its simplest form is a two-part component of our overall health and fitness. It can be broken up into measuring a body fat mass component and a body fat-free mass component. In its most detailed form, the Bod Pod can measure body fat, fat-free mass, water, mineral and protein. Having a higher fat-free body component is important because it reduces the risk of obesity which, in turn, reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, hypertension, obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as some forms of cancer. Because of these health risks, the body should have a lower body fat percentage; however, not having enough body fat can also lead to problems. The body requires a particular amount of fat in order to maintain normal physiological functions, such as cell membrane formation, storing metabolic fuel, transportation and storage of fat-soluble vitamins, and the formation of adipose tissue. Lipids are also important for proper functioning of the reproductive system, nervous system, and the menstrual cycle. Having low body fat can affect the body’s immune system, as well as potentially cause diseases like cystic fibrosis. Therefore, it is important that body fat is measured accurately so that health risks can be determined. PURPOSE AND HYPOTHESIS The purpose of this study was to analyze the predicted thoracic gas volume versus measured thoracic gas volume in college students, comparing NCAA collegiate athletes versus non-athletes using the Bod Pod. The hypothesis was that there would be a significant difference between measured and predicted thoracic gas volume in athletes but not in non-athletes.