In preparation for the new cycling season, the riders of ProTeam Lotto Soudal undergo a series of medical tests, including the Dexa scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry). This scan provides valuable information that allows the team to optimize the performance of its riders. Wim Van Hoolst, coach at Energy Lab, explains the importance of the Dexa scan.
“A Dexa scanner is a device in which riders take place in cycling clothing or sports outfit. During some ten minutes, the rider is scanned from head to toe with a laser which uses X-rays to analyze the body composition. That way, we get a very extensive image of the athlete in a very short period of time. In addition to that, the Dexa scan provides the right values every single time. It is like the gold standard to determine body composition,” says Wim Van Hoolst.
The Dexa scan provides insight into three key values that help adjust training and nutrition schemes to optimize rider performance.
Body fat mass
“First and foremost, there is the body fat mass, which is measured accurately to the nearest gram. This is the number of kilos of body fat. For an athlete, it is for example disadvantageous to have a fat percentage above ten percent during the winter period. If you still need to lose weight during that period, you create a negative energy balance, which in turn is detrimental to your recovery,” explains Wim Van Hoolst.
He adds, “Ten percent is a good target figure for the upper limit, but also riders with a fat percentage that’s too low are closely monitored. A value that’s too low also has a negative impact on the ability to recover, because the hormones that improve recovery – such as testosterone – are produced by fat.”
Lean body mass
Another important value is the lean body mass, which indicates the active tissue in the body. This parameter gives insight into muscle quantity and can evaluate the impact of strength training. It is also useful for rehabilitation purposes, as left-right differences can be monitored, and the rehabilitation of injuries on specific sides of the body can be closely managed.
Bone mass and bone density
The Dexa scan also measures bone mass and bone density, which reveals the strength of the bones. While cycling generally imposes minimal stress on the bones, riders with low bone density and little muscle tissue around the bones are more susceptible to fractures in the event of a crash. These riders are recommended to engage in more strength training, alternative sports, or take supplements to improve their bone health.
The results of the Dexa scan are shared with Damien Pauquet, the dietician of the Lotto Soudal team, who uses them to develop nutrition schemes tailored to each rider’s profile.
The use of Dexa scans by ProTeam Lotto Soudal demonstrates the team’s commitment to maximizing the performance, health, and well-being of its riders.
