The D-BIICEP Study

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA): a total of two scans will be performed, one for the assessment of whole body bone mineral density and body composition, and the other scan is performed to specifically assess fracture risk by scanning the hip and femoral head. Effective exposure doses for these scans are \~8uSv and \~4uSv respectively.

A total of one scan will be performed on the non-dominant Tibia, the effective exposure dose will be between 1.5-1.8uSV.

Participants are required to record their lifestyle, diet (5-day self reported), physical activity (IPAQ questionnaire), injury and illness incidence.

Aerobic fitness will be tested using a VO2 max exercise protocol using a stationary cycle ergometer, the participants will be expected to perform this to maximal effort or exhaustion.

Muscular strength of the knee extensor and handgrip muscles will be determined using an Isokinetic Dynamometer and a handgrip dynamometer respectively.

15ml of whole blood will be collected for the measurement of fasting serum 25(OH)D levels, parathyroid hormone, C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) and full blood count

Muscular power will be determined using an optical measurement system consisting of a transmitting and receiving bar to determine jump height through the interpretation of jump flight of the participant (reported in cm). The equipment used is an Optojump.