Anatomic and Functional Characteristics of Lower Extremities in Elite and Sub-Elite Fencers
Journal Title: Biology of Exercise - Year 2016, Vol 12, Issue 1
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate possible differences in selected anthropometric and performance parameters between dominant and non dominant limbs, in elite and sub-elite fencers of both genders. In total, 13 female and 15 male fencers all members of the Greek National Fencing team (age 19.9 ± 3.5 years, height 175.6 ± 7.6 cm, weight 64.4 ± 9.5 kg) were examined. Anthropometric parameters included weight, height, mid-thigh skin fold and thigh circumference, while mid-thigh muscle cross sectional area on the dominant and non dominant side was calculated from an anthropometric formula incorporating limb circumference and skin folds. Jumping performance (counter movement jumps) in the dominant and non dominant side was measured using a chronojump mat, and flexibility of the hamstrings muscles was measured bilaterally using a Lafayette goniometer. Fencers were classified as elite or sub-elite according to their international results. Significant differences were observed between dominant and non dominant limbs in muscle cross sectional area (11.9%, p<0.05) and jumping performance (15.9%, p<0.05). Additionally, significant differences were observed between elite and sub-elite fencers in muscle cross-sectional area of the dominant side (6.8%, p<0.05), flexibility of the dominant side (18.9%, p<0.05) and flexibility of the non-dominant side (18.3%, p<0.05). Moreover, significant differences were also found between male and female fencers in countermovement jump performance of the dominant side (24.5%, p<0.05). In conclusion, the observed anatomical and functional differences due to potential specific training adaptations may be used to discriminate elite from sub elite fencers.
Authors and Affiliations
KOTSASIAN A. MSc| Department of Health Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden, TSOLAKIS cH, PHD| Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Athens, Greece, 10434, Athens, Greece, DRAKE A.M., PHD| Department of Health Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
Keywords
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- EP ID EP15875
- DOI http: doi.org/10.4127/jbe.2016.0096
- Views 314
- Downloads 17
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