Changes in Body Composition, Energy Metabolism, and Appetite-Regulating Hormones in Korean Professional Female Ballet Dancers Before and After Ballet Performance

Abstract

This study investigated changes in body composition, energy balance, and appetite-regulating hormones in professional female ballet dancers before and after 3 days of ballet performances. The subjects were 43 professional female ballet dancers in Korea. The mean age of the subjects was 25.9 ± 2.8 years, and they had over 13 years of ballet training on average. For body composition, the body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (%BF), lean body mass (LBM), and total body water (TBW) were evaluated. By way of blood analysis the serum levels of ghrelin, leptin, and insulin were examined. The calculations of energy intake (EI) and expenditure (EE) were based on journals that were self-recorded by the subjects for 14 days. For statistical analysis, the dependent sample t-test was applied (p < 0.05). The results showed no significant change in %BF, but the BMI, LBM, and TBW increased significantly in the post-performance measurement. Energy balance results demonstrated a significant increase in EI and decrease in EE. Both the ghrelin and leptin levels increased significantly. Although reported energy intake increased after performances, it remained below estimated energy requirements. Ballet dancers should be aware of the need to maintain energy balance in order to optimize their health and performance.