Standing long jump performance is a positive determinant of bone mineral density in young adult women

Abstract

It is generally believed that bone mineral density (BMD) measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the best single predictor of fracture risk especially in elderly women (1,2). Peak BMD attained at the third decade of life is a strong predictor of fracture risk later in life (1,2). Indeed, it was calculated that an increase in peak BMD of 10% would delay the onset of osteoporosis by 13 yr (3). Long-term practice of weight-bearing physical activities stimulates bone formation and enhances BMD of stressed sites (4,5).