Nutritional, physical fitness and anxiety profile of hockey and football players- a comparative analysis

Sports accomplishments are determined by a progressive training program, adequate physical fitness, a well balanced diet and sound mind. Team sports like hockey and football are physically demanding contact sports with high intensity sprints, place a unique physical and mental demand upon its players, which when understood will enable a more scientific approach to performance. This study aimed to analyze and compare the nutritional, physical fitness and anxiety profile of the hockey and football players. About 43 and 38 male collegiate hockey and football players were selected during an intercollegiate tournament and assessed through anthropometry, diet survey, Aapherd physical fitness tests and Marten’s SCAT Scale for anxiety. The results showed that the majority of the hockey players were staying in hostel and were from low income families. Except height and muscle mass, a non significant difference was observed in other anthropometric measurements between the groups (165±15, 170.55±6.08cm and 52.51±7.47, 49.99±8.63 Kg). The muscular strength, agility and flexibility were better in hockey players. 47% of the football players were found to be less anxious than hockey players (25%). A significant difference in anxiety was found between the groups. Periodical nutrition and psychological counseling by trained professionals is essential along with regular training to improve the player’s health, nutritional status, physical fitness and to reduce anxiety inturn promote their athletic performance.