Body Composition Assessment in Sport: Field and Laboratory Methods, Monitoring, and Translation to Nutrition Guidelines

Body composition assessment is a cornerstone of applied sport science and sports nutrition, supporting performance optimization, health protection, and individualized training and dietary planning. In practice, a wide range of methods are used across settings, from field-based approaches such as anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and ultrasound, to laboratory and multi-compartment reference models such as DXA. However, important challenges remain in selecting fit-for-purpose methods, standardizing measurement and reporting, interpreting longitudinal change in athletic populations, and translating results into clear, actionable decisions for nutrition and athlete management.This Research Topic aims to advance the science and practice of body composition assessment in sport, with a particular interest in how data from both field and laboratory methods can be interpreted and integrated to improve decision-making. We welcome work addressing methodological validity and reliability, population-specific reference systems, and practical frameworks for distinguishing meaningful tissue adaptation (e.g., hypertrophy or fat loss) from short-term fluctuations related to hydration status, glycogen, or cellular fluid shifts, issues that are especially relevant in athletes due to high day-to-day variability. In parallel, we encourage contributions that connect assessment outputs to applied practice, including nutrition guidance (energy availability and balance, macronutrient targets, hydration planning), risk screening, and criteria for escalation to laboratory methods or medical follow-up when indicated.To gather further insights, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o Validation, reliability, and practical implementation of body composition methods in athletic settings (field and lab)o Standardization of protocols, reporting practices, and quality control (e.g., operator training, device/software considerations)o Reference values, centiles, and athlete-specific interpretation across sex, age, sport, and competitive levelo Longitudinal monitoring: distinguishing tissue change from hydration/glycogen/cellular shiftso Integrated or multi-method assessment models (including, but not limited to, anthropometry, BIA/BIVA patterns, ultrasound, DXA, and multi-compartment approaches)o Decision frameworks translating assessment findings into nutrition and performance recommendationso Thresholds and pathways for escalation to laboratory measures and/or clinical evaluationo Integration of assessment into routine athlete health care and multidisciplinary performance systemsWe invite submissions including original research, methods papers, reviews, mini-reviews, and expert perspectives that align with the aims of this Research Topic. Topic editors: Cristian Petri, Alfredo Irurtia Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78217/body-composition-assessment-in-sport-field-and-laboratory-methods-monitoring-and-translation-to-nutrition-guidelines