Energy Expenditure of Female International Standard Soccer Players: A Doubly Labeled Water Investigation

Purpose The purpose of this study is to quantify total daily energy expenditure (TEE) of international adult female soccer players. Methods Twenty-four professional players were studied during a 12-d period where they participated in an international training camp (also inclusive of two competitive games) representing the English national team. The TEE was assessed via the doubly labeled water method during the full 12 d as well as the initial 4-d period before game one. Energy intake was also assessed (via weighed food analysis) during the initial 4-d period to permit estimation of energy availability (EA). Results Mean TEE did not differ (P = 0.31) between the 12-d (2693 +/- 432 kcal center dot d(-1); range, 2105-3507 kcal center dot d(-1); 54 +/- 6 kcal center dot kg(-1) fat-free mass [FFM]) versus the 4-d assessment period (2753 +/- 359 kcal center dot d(-1); range, 1942-3280 kcal center dot d(-1); 56 +/- 8 kcal center dot kg(-1) FFM). Mean 4-d energy intake was 1923 +/- 357 kcal center dot d(-1) (range, 1639-2172 kcal center dot d(-1)) and mean activity energy expenditure was 1069 +/- 278 kcal center dot d(-1) (range, 155-1549 kcal center dot d(-1)). When assessed for estimated EA, 88% of players were categorized with low EA status according to the threshold of Conclusions When compared with previously published data from adult male players, we demonstrate that the relative daily energetic requirements of engaging in professional soccer training and match play are comparable between sexes. From a practical perspective, data suggest that practitioners should likely focus education and behavior change strategies on fuelling for match play and training to optimize both player health and performance.

Automated summary

The study found that the daily energy requirements of female soccer players engaged in professional training and match play are comparable to those of male players. From a practical perspective, the data suggest that a focus on fueling for matches and training is important for optimizing player health and performance.