Relations Between Maximal Half Squat Strength and Bone Variables in a Group of Young Overweight Men

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between maximal half-squat strength and bone variables in a group of young overweight men. 76 young overweight men (18 to 35 years) voluntarily participated in this study. Weight and height were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Body composition, bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) and geometric indices of hip bone strength were determined for each individual by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Maximal half-squat strength was measured by a classical fitness machine (Smith machine) respecting the instructions of the national association of conditioning and muscular strength (NCSA). Maximal half-squat strength was positively correlated to WB BMC (r = 0.37; p < 0.01), WB BMD (r = 0.29; p < 0.05), L1–L4 BMC (r = 0.43; p < 0.001), L1–L4 BMD (r = 0.42; p < 0.001), TH BMC (r = 0.30; p < 0.01), TH BMD (r = 0.26; p < 0.05), FN BMD (r = 0.32; p < 0.01), FN cross-sectional area (CSA) (r = 0.44; p < 0.001), FN cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI) (r = 0.27; p < 0.05), FN section modulus (Z) (r = 0.37; p < 0.001) and FN strength index (SI) (r = 0.33; p < 0.01). After adjusting for lean mass, maximal half-squat strength remained significantly correlated to WB BMC (p = 0.003), WB BMD (p = 0.047), L1–L4 BMC (p < 0.001), L1–L4 BMD (p < 0.001), TH BMC (p = 0.046), FN BMD (p = 0.016), FN CSA (p < 0.001), FN Z (p = 0.003) and FN SI (p < 0.001). The current study suggests that maximal half-squat strength is a positive determinant of BMC, BMD and geometric indices of hip bone strength in young overweight men.