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Sprint kayaking and canoeing performance prediction based on the relationship between maturity status, anthropometry and physical fitness in young elite paddlers
Journal of Sports Sciences
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the maturity-related differences and its influence on the physical fitness, morphological and performance characteristics of young elite paddlers. In total, 89 kayakers and 82 canoeists, aged 13.69 ± 0.57 years (mean ± s), were allocated in three groups depending on their age relative to the age at peak height velocity (pre-APHV, circum-APHV and post-APHV) and discipline (kayak and canoe). Nine anthropometric variables, a battery of four physical fitness tests (overhead medicine ball throw, countermovement jump, sit-and-reach test and 20 m multistage shuttle run test) and three specific performance tests (1000, 500 and 200 m) were assessed. Both disciplines presented significant maturity-based differences in all anthropometric parameters (except for fat and muscle mass percentage), overhead medicine ball throw and all performance times (pre > circum > post; P < 0.05). Negative and significant correlations (P < 0.01) were detected between performance times, chronological age and anthropometry (body mass, height, sitting height and maturity status), overhead medicine ball throw and sit and reach for all distances. These findings confirm the importance of maturity status in sprint kayaking and canoeing since the more mature paddlers were also those who revealed largest body size, physical fitness level and best paddling performance. Additionally, the most important variables predicting performance times in kayaking and canoeing were maturity status and chronological age, respectively.
... Recently, Fernandes et al. [8] stated that the young kayakers who achieved better performances were maturely advanced and had more years of specific practice. Moreover, López-Plaza et al. [33] showed negative and significant correlations between performance and chronological age and presented significant performance maturity-based differences at 1000, 500, and 200 m. ...
... Additionally, the ones with significantly best performances (1409.46 ± 65.37 s) were significantly more experienced (5.06 ± 2.00 years). This data for U16 kayakers corroborates previous findings [8,33], reaffirming the importance of controlling for maturation at this kayakers' sports development stage. ...
... When performing correlations, comparisons, and regressions, CA is usually a significant variable in kayaking [8,33,37]. Thus, those born earlier in the year probably present superior stretch stature, body mass, sitting height, muscle mass, and kayaking experience, and possibly obtain better performances. ...
Like in other sports systems, in kayaking, young athletes are commonly grouped by their birth years. This study analyzed maturity status, relative age, and constituent age effects in young Under 14 (U14) and 16 (U16) Iberian male kayakers. One hundred and thirty (U14: n =80; U16: n = 50) young kayakers aged 14.10 ± 1.06 years were assessed for anthropometry, performance, maturity, and sport experience. The year was divided into four birth quarters (BQ). There were no significant differences in the kayaker’s distribution by BQ in both categories (U14, p = 0.348; U16, p = 0.709) or total sample (p = 0.783). Six of the ten best kayakers in the U14 category were born in the year’s first half, and eight were among the U16 kayakers. Talent detection and selection systems based solely on the young kayakers’ performances may imply some bias. One of the ways to get around this situation would be to adopt a grouping system similar to bio-banding, allowing the maximum number of practitioners to experience the possibility of obtaining competitive success.
... Several studies about bio-banding in football (bio-banding is the process of grouping practitioners based on attributes associated with growth and maturation and not chronological age) have been conducted [5,[16][17][18]. Previous canoeing studies have focused on analyzing athletes from a morphological and a maturity standpoint [19][20][21][22], considering performance [23]. These studies have evaluated the best paddlers of their categories and reported that the most biologically mature paddlers also showed the best performances. ...
... Mirwald et al. [34] showed that performance changes are particularly evident just before and during the onset of the peak height velocity. López-Plaza et al. [23] stated significant differences between maturity groups and performance, suggesting that maturity status is a predictor of race performance and may reveal the importance of maturity status at a similar chronological age. ...
... Since, generally, athletes of different competitive levels are characterized by an average or advanced maturity status [38], maturation is discriminatory in sports where the best performances are dependent on the physical level [6]. López-Plaza et al. [23] reported that in kayaking and canoeing, the more biologically mature paddlers obtained the best paddling times. The differences in growth and maturation seem to contribute to the selection process in individual sports such as tennis and table tennis [32,33] and team sports such as basketball [39]. ...
Previous canoe sprint studies evaluated the best paddlers of their categories. This investigation aimed to identify the importance of biological maturation and athletes’ experience in kayaking performance and observe possible differences regarding anthropometry, years of practice, and performance. Eighty under 14 years of age (U14) and fifty under 16 years of age (U16) kayakers aged 13.40 ± 0.54 and 15.25 ± 0.61 years were evaluated. Kayakers were assessed for anthropometry (body mass (kg); stretch stature (cm); and sitting height (cm)), performance (time at 3000 m for U14 and 5000 m for U16 kayakers), and somatic maturation (predicted adult height (PAH) and maturity offset). In the U14 kayakers, years of practice, sitting height, and maturity offset showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the Top10 and Middle, and Middle and Bottom10 performance times. Significantly higher (p < 0.05) sitting heights were identified between the Top10 and Middle U16 kayakers. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed for maturity offset and PAH% between the Top10 and Middle groups compared to the Bottom10 group. In conclusion, this research shows differences in the maturity status of young U14 and U16 kayakers, identifying that the more biologically mature individuals, with more years of specific practice, achieved better performances.
... Such methods are time consuming and expensive to deploy and thus have limited feasibility for the mass screening and monitoring of young athletes. López-Plaza et al. (15) performed a study in 171 young kayakers and canoeists and suggested that easily administered physical fitness tests (e.g., shuttle run test) are not only more weakly associated with race time than chronological age and maturity status (15) but also than the physiological outcomes used in other studies (e.g., maximum oxygen uptake) (5,28). Perhaps physical fitness tests contain little valuable information to gauge the performance level of (young) kayakers and canoeists. ...
... Such methods are time consuming and expensive to deploy and thus have limited feasibility for the mass screening and monitoring of young athletes. López-Plaza et al. (15) performed a study in 171 young kayakers and canoeists and suggested that easily administered physical fitness tests (e.g., shuttle run test) are not only more weakly associated with race time than chronological age and maturity status (15) but also than the physiological outcomes used in other studies (e.g., maximum oxygen uptake) (5,28). Perhaps physical fitness tests contain little valuable information to gauge the performance level of (young) kayakers and canoeists. ...
... This echoes with recommendations to limit the performance assessment in young athletes to those outcomes that capture the demands of the event (13). Conversely, the administered tests in the study by López-Plaza et al. (15) (i.e., overhead medicine ball throw, countermovement jump [CMJ], sit and reach, and shuttle run) probably failed to capture the demands of the canoe sprint sport, which may explain the relatively weak associations with race time. ...
Gäbler, M, Prieske, O, Elferink-Gemser, MT, Hortobágyi, T, Warnke, T, and Granacher, U. Measures of physical fitness improve prediction of kayak and canoe sprint performance in young kayakers and canoeists. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2021-Markers of talent selection and predictors of performance in canoe and kayak sprint are not yet well defined. We aimed to determine the combination of variables (i.e., demographic, anthropometric, and physical fitness) that most accurately predicts sprint performance (i.e., 500- and 2000-m race time) in semielite, young kayakers and canoeists (n = 39, age 13 year, 10F). The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Linear regression analyses identified boat type (i.e., kayak or canoe), skeletal muscle mass, and average power during a 2-minute bench pull test, normalized to body mass, as predictors of 2000-m race time (R22000 m = 0.69, Akaike information criterion [AIC] = 425) and together with vertical jump height, as predictors of 500-m race time (R2500 m = 0.87, AIC = 255). This was an improvement over models containing solely demographic variables (R2500 m = 0.66, AIC = 293; R22000 m = 0.44, AIC = 446) and over models containing demographic and anthropometric variables (R2500m = 0.79, AIC = 277; R22000 m = 0.56, AIC = 437). Race time showed the strongest semipartial correlations with the 2-minute bench pull test (0.7 ≤ r ≤ 0.9). Adding physical fitness data (i.e., 2-minute bench pull test) to demographic and anthropometric data improves the prediction accuracy of race times in young kayak and canoe athletes. The characteristics of physical fitness tests should resemble as much as possible the biomechanical (e.g., prime movers) and metabolic (e.g., duration) demands of the sport.
... Previous studies have reported strong associations between fitness attributes and individual performance [13,14]. Although the level of overall physical fitness may be determined using field tests, specific assessments, especially with respect to power and strength, have allowed the identification of more accurate determinants for performance in martial arts [1,15]. ...
... This process is usually very different from one individual to another in terms of tempo and timing, resulting in opponents of the same chronological age but uneven biological age. In recent years, the influence of age and developmental periods on performance has become a central topic in sports research [14,18]. Particularly in martial arts, where young athletes undergo rapid physiological and morphological changes, understanding these changes is pivotal [1][2][3]. ...
The different nature of taekwondo and karate actions involves sport-specific actions with different physical demands and a typical morphological profile. The aims of the current investigation were to compare body composition and strength factors between young karate and taekwondo players and to investigate the body proportionality of each discipline. Twenty-five young taekwondo fighters (18 boys and 7 girls) and twenty-eight karate athletes (19 boys and 9 girls) volunteered for the study. A battery of anthropometric measurements were obtained for each individual (heights, weight, girths, lengths, and sum of skinfolds). Upper-body and lower-body strength were determined using the handgrip test and counter-movement jump test, respectively. In boys, significantly greater Σ 6 skinfold, wrist, and maximum thigh girth measurements were observed in taekwondo athletes (p < 0.05; d > 0.59), while karate competitors revealed larger muscle mass values (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, girls only showed significant differences with respect to anterior-posterior chest breadth, age at peak height velocity (APHV), and head girth (p < 0.05). Proportionality analysis revealed that both sexes presented lower skinfold thicknesses and breadths than the normal population. Therefore, in both disciplines, similar profiles were determined, but young karate athletes seemed to exhibit a tendency towards a more robust and compact profile with greater body strength.
... Achieving the highest level of performance in any sport is a gradual and comprehensive endeavor that extends over multiple years (Alejo et al., 2022), requiring continuous improvement of sport-specific characteristics from a junior level, progressing to under 23 (U23), and ultimately getting the professional level. Physiological attributes, anthropometric variables, bio-motor abilities, and body composition parameters affecting sprint kayaking performance have already been well elucidated (Fry and Morton, 1991;Byrnes and Kearney, 1997;Bishop, 2000;van Someren and Palmer, 2003;van Someren and Howatson, 2008;Michael et al., 2009;Buglione et al., 2011;McKean and Burkett, 2014;Borges et al., 2015;Hamano et al., 2015;López-Plaza et al., 2017;Paquette et al., 2018;Pickett et al., 2018;Coleho et al., 2020;Kukic et al., 2022;Gäbler et al., 2023). However, the information regarding the difference between age categories and expertise levels is limited. ...
... Kayakers compete in a seated position, propelling themselves forward using a double-blade paddle. Research indicates that sprint kayak performance mainly depends on upper-body anaerobic and aerobic power (Borges et al., 2015;López-Plaza et al., 2017;Barzegar et al., 2021;Sheykhlouvand et al., 2022). For instance, "using the accumulated oxygen deficit method, the contribution of aerobic metabolism to different distances in highly-trained kayakers has been estimated at 37%, 64%-78%, and 85%-87% for 200-m, 500-m, and 1,000-m, respectively (Byrnes and Kearney, 1997;Zamparo et al., 1999;Zouhla et al., 2012)". ...
This study compared cardiorespiratory fitness, bio-motor abilities, and body composition indexes of sprint kayakers categorized into three different age groups and two expertise levels of international- and club-level athletes. Seventy-three male juniors (n = 14, age = 16.2 ± 0.8), under 23 [U23 (n = 15, age = 20.2 ± 1.6)], professionals (n = 16, age = 27.1 ± 4.8), club-level (n = 15, age = 26.9 ± 6.6), and international-level (n = 13, age = 27.3 ± 3.2) sprint kayakers were studied. Cardiorespiratory fitness (assessed using incremental exercise test), 500 and 1,000-m paddling performance (assessed using kayak ergometer), upper-body power (assessed using 30 s all-out Wingate test) and strength (assessed through one repetition tests for bench press, cable row, and prone bench pull exercises), as well as body composition indexes (measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were evaluated on four occasions separated by 48 h recovery. U23 and, especially, professionals indicated significantly (p < 0.05) greater outcomes for the majority of the cardiorespiratory fitness parameters [maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), velocity corresponding to VO2max, Oxygen pulse, maximal ventilation, and second ventilatory threshold] and 500 and 1,000-m performance. U23 and professional sprint kayakers significantly (p < 0.05) differed in the first ventilatory threshold and 500, and 1,000-m performance but not in VO2max or the second ventilatory threshold. Professionals also showed a lower fat mass, higher muscle mass, and higher strength (bench press, prone bench pull, and seated cable row) and power than U23 and junior kayakers. Strength and power indicators had significantly greater values in U23 athletes compared to juniors. International-level athletes also showed superior VO2max, velocity corresponding to VO2max, middle (500-m), and long-distance (1,000-m) time trial performance, strength and power, lower fat, and higher muscle mass than club-level sprint kayakers. Cardiorespiratory fitness (particularly ventilatory threshold), body composition, and muscle strength/power are the best differentiating factors for sprint kayakers of different ages and expertise levels. These findings could aid coaches in prescribing training programs focusing on improving determining factors in paddling performance, as well as in predicting performance and identifying talent.
... Since elite paddlers must generally maintain maximum efforts between 30 s and 3 min during competition, high levels of aerobic and anaerobic capacities are expected [5,6]. Previous investigations have reported significant associations between physical fitness attributes, such as upper and lower body strength, and specific on-water performance in 200 and 500 m courses [7][8][9][10]. ...
... Consequently, the more practicing time in canoeing, the more efficient the technique and performance that a young athlete attains. Achieving optimal performance in kayaking requires early and robust physical development commonly related to advanced-maturity individuals [8,15], whereas canoeing places a greater emphasis on technical proficiency [31]. Consequently, talent identification and development programs should consider maturity estimation at early ages for discipline selection to ensure athletes obtain adequate experience time in kayaking or canoeing for the acquisition of fundamental skills and better propulsion efficiency. ...
Elite kayakers are characterized by robust somatotypes and a high degree of technical skills acquired from early ages along the biological maturity process. This study aimed to analyze the interdependence of anthropometric attributes, maturity status, and new stroke kinematics variables such as long- and short-term stroke steadiness in young sprint paddlers. Twenty-two elite young male canoeists, aged 13.5 ± 0.4 years, volunteered for the investigation. A battery of anthropometric measurements was obtained for each individual while stroke kinematics were determined by lateral recordings in an all-out 200 m test. Frame-to-frame analysis of consecutive strokes allowed the determination of short-term and long-term steadiness. Significant and positive correlations (p < 0.05) between maturity status, canoeing experience, and stroke steadiness were identified, especially in long-term steadiness (r = 0.60–0.83). In addition, upper-body dimensions in the chest and arms exhibited strong associations with both short- and long-term steadiness (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that biological maturity, but particularly experience, are key factors for a higher stroke efficiency. Therefore, early identification of morphological characteristics and maturity status along with specific practice in canoeing should be taken into consideration for ideal talent development in young canoeists.
... Regarding the kinanthropometric characteristics, these results are similar to those found in previous studies performed both in handball players [10,42,43] and in other sports [26,27,44,45]. In both cases, athletes with early biological maturation obtained higher values in kinanthropometric characteristics. ...
... The reason for these differences may be due to muscle development due to hormonal changes in biological maturation [11], which implies higher values of MM in early maturers, as shown in our research, and, therefore, better values in tests related to strength and power [48]. On the other hand, no significant differences were observed in the sprint test, even though it may also depend on factors related to strength and power production to some extent [44,45]. This coincides with the results found in previous studies, which observed that players who had already passed the maximum growth peak had better results in the sprint test [49] and that early maturers had better results in strength and speed tests [44]. ...
The aims of this research were to analyze the differences in kinanthropometric characteristics and physical performance as a function of biological maturation, as well as to analyze these differences with the inclusion of the covariates age, maturity offset and diet, and to know how the players were classified according to BMI z-score. Seventy-three handball players (mean age: 14.17 ± 0.61) underwent a kinanthropometric assessment, physical performance tests and self-completed the KIDMED questionnaire. The sample was divided into three groups based on age at peak height velocity (APHV). Significant differences were found for basic measurements, BMI, BMI z-score, Cormic Index, muscle mass, medicine ball throw and SJ jump (p < 0.000-0.048), with early maturers having the highest values. All covariates included had a determinant influence on the kinanthropometric characteristics (p < 0.000-0.014), and both age and maturity offset showed significant differences in most physical tests (p < 0.000-0.033), so these covariates should be considered in evaluations to predict the future performance of players. Finally, significant differences were found between the biological maturation groups in the distribution of the BMI classification, with the normal-weight grade being the predominant one.
... Many applications of the equations use predicted maturity offset to classify youth as pre-PHV, at/circa/mid-PHV, or post-PHV using a band of -0.5 to +0.5 year to define the interval at PHV [29,[34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41]; a band of -1.0 to +1.0 year is used less often [42][43][44][45][46]. On the other hand, some studies do not report the specific cut-offs that were used [47][48][49]. ...
... Predicted maturity offset is used most often to classify youth as pre-, at-/circa-and post-PHV, although mean CAs, heights and weights show, on average, a clear gradient across the respective maturity groups. Many studies simply compare the three groups with analysis of variance without controlling for the variation in CA and body size among groups [31,35,36,40,70]. It is also unclear as to how CA-related variation in predicted offset or ages at PHV was addressed in studies applying the prediction equations in short-term longitudinal studies [71][72][73]. ...
The purpose of the study was to evaluate predicted maturity offset (time before age at PHV) and age at PHV (chronological age [CA] minus maturity offset) in a longitudinal sample of 58 under-13 club level soccer players in central Portugal for whom ages at PHV were estimated with the SITAR model. Two maturity offset prediction equations were applied: the original equation which requires CA sitting height, estimated leg length, height and weight, and a modified equation which requires CA and height. Predicted maturity offset increased, on average, with CA at prediction throughout the age range considered, while variation in predicted maturity offset and ages at PHV within CA groups was considerably reduced compared to variation in observed ages at offset and at PHV. Predicted maturity offset and ages at PHV were consistently later than observed maturity offset and age at PHV among early maturing players, and earlier than observed in late maturing players. Both predicted offset and ages at PHV with the two equations were, on average, later than observed among players maturing on time. Intra-individual variation in predicted ages at PHV with each equation was considerable. The results for soccer players were consistent with similar studies in the general population and two recent longitudinal studies of soccer players. The results question the utility of predicted maturity offset and age at PHV as valid indicators of maturity timing and status.
... Is well-accepted that in young athletes, the older athletes trend performed better, which could be explained by maturation relative factors. Athletes maturational advanced tend to show better performances as observed in Spanish young canoe sprint athletes which reinforce the need to evaluate age and maturity to interpret the performance in young canoe sprint athletes (8,17). In our study, we did not observe the association of maturity on the performance due to the homogeneity of the sample that clearly surpass the PHV. ...
... The biomechanical variables showed that the athletes with the highest stroke rate and highest mechanical power output performed better in the TT, being able to apply and maintain a power value close to the MAP (17). However, in the study mentioned above conducted on water, the stroke distance and the stroke rate were reported as critical factors for mechanical efficiency and performance in young kayakers (20), whereas stroke distance was not significantly correlated with performance in the current study. ...
This study aimed to develop a predictive explanatory model for the 1,000-m time-trial (TT) performance in young national-level kayakers, from biomechanical and physiological parameters assessed in a maximal graded exercise test (GXT). Twelve young male flat-water kayakers (age 16.1 ± 1.1 years) participated in the study. The design consisted of 2 exercise protocols, separated by 48 h, on a kayak ergometer. The first protocol consisted of a GXT starting at 8 km.h⁻¹ with increments in speed of 1 km.h⁻¹ at each 2-min interval until exhaustion. The second protocol comprised the 1,000-m TT.
Results: In the GXT, they reached an absolute V∙O2max of 3.5 ± 0.7 (L.min⁻¹), a maximum aerobic power (MAP) of 138.5 ± 24.5 watts (W) and a maximum aerobic speed (MAS) of 12.8 ± 0.5 km/h. The TT had a mean duration of 292.3 ± 15 s, a power output of 132.6 ± 22.0 W and a V∙O2max of 3.5 ± 0.6 (L.min⁻¹). The regression model [TT (s) = 413.378–0.433 × (MAP)−0.554 × (stroke rate at MAP)] presented an R² = 84.5%.
Conclusion: It was found that V∙O2max, stroke distance and stroke rate during the GXT were not different from the corresponding variables (V∙O2peak, stroke distance and stroke rate) observed during the TT. The MAP and the corresponding stroke rate were strong predicting factors of 1,000 m TT performance. In conclusion, the TT can be useful for quantifying biomechanical parameters (stroke distance and stroke rate) and to monitor training induced changes in the cardiorespiratory fitness (V∙O2max).
... 3,9,10 Interestingly, only one study has endeavored to investigate the relationship between measures obtained from lower-limb strength assessment with sprint kayak performance. 11 This recent study found a small, but significant, inverse correlation between countermovement jump performance and time to complete 200-m onwater kayak sprint time (r = −.23). 11 While the significant inverse correlation potentially suggests that the lower limb may be one of the determinants of sprint kayaking performance, it is important to note that the magnitude of correlation is small. ...
... 11 This recent study found a small, but significant, inverse correlation between countermovement jump performance and time to complete 200-m onwater kayak sprint time (r = −.23). 11 While the significant inverse correlation potentially suggests that the lower limb may be one of the determinants of sprint kayaking performance, it is important to note that the magnitude of correlation is small. Indeed, several studies have shown the importance of lower-limb movement when kayakers execute the kayak paddling technique. ...
Force-time characteristics obtained during isometric strength tests are significantly correlated to various sporting movements. However, data on the relationship between isometric force-time characteristics and sprint kayaking performance are lacking in the literature.
Purpose:
The purpose of the study was, therefore, to investigate the relationship between sprint kayaking performance with ergometer performance and measures from 3 isometric strength tests: isometric squat, isometric bench press, and isometric prone bench pull.
Methods:
A total of 23 sprint kayaking athletes performed all 3 tests, at 90° and 120° knee angles for isometric squat and at elbow angles for isometric bench press and isometric prone bench pull, and a 200-m sprint on-water to attain the fastest time-to-completion (OWTT) possible and on a kayak ergometer to attain the highest mean power (LABTT) possible.
Results:
There was a significant inverse correlation between OWTT and LABTT (r = -.90, P < .001). The peak forces achieved from all isometric strength tests were significantly correlated with time-to-completion for OWTT and mean power for LABTT (r = -.44 to -.88, P < .05 and .47 to .80, P < .05, respectively). OWTT was significantly correlated with the peak rate of force development during all isometric tests except for the isometric squat at a 120° knee angle (r = -.47 to -.62, P < .05). LABTT was significantly correlated with peak rate of force development from the isometric bench press and isometric prone bench pull (r = .64-.86, P < .01).
Conclusion:
Based on the observed strong correlations, the mean power attained during LABTT is a good predictor of OWTT time-to-completion. Furthermore, upper- and lower-body maximum strength and peak rate of force development are equally important for on-water and ergometer sprint kayaking performance.
... It is important to acknowledge that the relationship between fitness and maturation across childhood and adolescence is well known [11] and there is a considerable literature base examining how biological maturation influences youth sport performance, and its implications for talent identification and development [12,13] and for health enhancing physical activity [14]. Recent meta-analytic research by Albaladejo-Saura et al. [15] has examined the relationship between biological maturation, physical fitness and kinanthropometric variables in young athletes. ...
Purpose
To examine which key body size characteristics are common to success when performing a variety of physical fitness tests and, at the same time, to identify further characteristics that benefit only specific fitness tests.
Methods
Cross-sectional study carried out with data from 94,484 6–18 year olds. The physical fitness tests were: 1) 20-m sprint test, 2) four-square agility test, 3) abdominal strength test (sit-ups/min), 4) horizontal jump test, 5) seated 2 kg medicine ball throw test and 6) a cardiorespiratory test (6 min run). The body size and maturation characteristics were body mass, height, arm span and maturity offset (MO). The ideal body size and MO characteristics associated with the six physical performance variables were identified using allometric modelling.
Results
Two key characteristics associated with superior performances in all six physical performance tests were identified, to have a greater arm span together with a positive maturity offset. The arm span was the predictor with the largest effect size (Partial Eta Squared between 0.005 and 0.013) in five of the six physical fitness tests evaluated. The contribution of body mass varied depending on whether the physical performance test required the children to carry their body mass or not. In the case of endurance events, the mass term was negative. In the case when the test did not require the child to carry their body mass (e.g. throwing the medicine ball test), the mass term was always positive. However, for sprinting, the optimal performances peaked at 62 kg for 20 m sprinting and 73 kg for agility tests.
Conclusion
The prominence of arm span’s influence underscores its role in sports evaluations and the talent identification processes, reaffirming its practical significance. In addition, the study hints at the nuanced relationship between body mass and specific test requirements, potentially guiding targeted training strategies for different physical tasks.
... High-intensity interval training has been studied in canoe-kayak athletes, with a focus on the physiological responses to different training sessions, aiming to optimize both central and peripheral adaptations [5]. Additionally, the relationship between maturity status, anthropometry, and physical fitness has been explored in young elite paddlers, highlighting the importance of these factors in predicting performance [6]. ...
(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze the number of injuries in the canoe and kayak disciplines. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional and retrospective epidemiological study was conducted on a convenience sample of elite canoeists and kayakers during the Spanish Championships of each canoeing and kayaking modality. Retrospective data were collected on the number, body area, type, and severity of injuries sustained in previous seasons, as well as other affiliation data. Four separate multiple linear regression models were used to investigate the impact of the sports mode of canoeing, age, and sex on the occurrence of injuries. (3) Results: The findings indicate a distinction in injury frequency between canoeing and kayaking modalities, with injuries being more common in canoeing. The occurrence of mild injuries decreases with age among canoeists, while remaining consistent in kayaking. As athletes age, confidence intervals increase. Canoeists have a higher injury probability, and across all injury types, men have a lower injury risk. (4) Conclusions: The frequency of injuries is higher in the canoe modality across all age groups. Coaches and athletes should be well-informed about the insights provided in this study to implement targeted injury prevention strategies, especially in women canoeists.
... Little attention has been given to lower limb strength in canoeists in scientific literature. To our knowledge, the few authors who addressed lower limb strength in canoeists made it through jump tests [42,43], yet the sample was young and composed of university paddlers (mean age 13.69 and 19.7 years, respectively). A similar sample of canoeists as ours, yet involving the junior category, was assessed by Álvarez-Yates and García-García [1]. ...
Canoe modality in flatwater canoeing has a clear asymmetrical nature. This study aimed (1) to determine the magnitude and direction of neuromuscular properties, range of motion (ROM) and lower-limb strength asymmetries in female and male canoeists; (2) to establish sex-individualized asymmetry thresholds for canoeists' neuromuscular properties, ROM and lower-limb strength; and (3) to determine the relationship of canoeists' neuromuscular properties, ROM and lower-limb strength asymmetries with a specific canoe-dynamometer performance test. Twenty-one international canoeists were assessed through tensiomyography (TMG), ROM, lower-limb explosive strength, and a specific canoe incremental dynamometric test. The magnitude of asymmetry assessed through TMG and ROM was not modulated either by sex or performance level (international medal vs. non-medal). Females showed greater asymmetry than males on muscle tone of the erector spinae towards non-stroke side (22.75% vs. 9.72%) and the tibialis anterior (30.97% vs. 16.29%), and Fmax in explosive leg press (2.41% vs. 0.63%) towards the stroke side. International medalists showed greater asymmetry in semitendinosus contraction time towards non-stroke side (20.51% vs. 9.43%) and reached Vmax earlier in explosive leg press towards stroke side leg (19.20% vs. 9.40%). A greater asymmetry in Fmax and in Vm, and a smaller asymmetry in Tvmax and in leg press showed a small predictive capacity for canoeists' performance on a specific canoe incremental dynamometry test. Reporting reference data from world-class canoeists' asymmetries can be of great importance for coaches to periodically control lateral asymmetry.
... It is well known that the anthropometric status of athletes is crucial, as morphological characteristics are directly linked to success in sports (López-Plaza, Alacid, Muyor, & López-Miñarro, 2017;Slimani & Nikolaidis, 2019;Banjević et al., 2022;Katanic, Bjelica, Rezic, Selimi, & Osmani, 2022). It has been established that athletes must possess an optimal level of morphological characteristics according to the demands of a specific sport (Popović, Akpinar, Jakšić, Matić & Bjelica, 2013;Slimani & Nikolaidis, 2019;Katanic, Bjelica, & Covic, 2022;. ...
Elite futsal players in addition to other characteristics, must have suitable anthropometric and body composition according to their playing position. The research aimed to determine body composition of Bosnia and Herzegovina U-19 national futsal team players and also determine differences in anthropometric and body composition of players according to their playing position. The sample of respondents consisted of Bosnia and Herzegovina U-19 National Futsal Team players (n=14, average age 18.07±0.48 yrs, body height 181.40±5.72 cm, and body weight 77.66±10.60 kg). Anthropometric characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). Futsal players were divided according to their positions in the team into goalkeepers, defenders, wingers and pivots. Based on ANOVA and post-hoc tests, the findings showed that there were significant differences between groups in 8 out of 11 anthropometric parameters. So, in relation to this, the main findings of the study indicate that: i) goalkeepers and pivots have significantly higher body mass and percentage of fat compared to defenders and wingers; ii) goalkeepers have a higher BMI than all other players, while pivots have higher BMI values than defenders and wingers; iii) muscle mass favors goalkeepers and pivots over wingers; iv) goalkeepers had significantly higher values in triceps and biceps skinfold measurements compared to other players, as well as in lower leg skinfold compared to defenders and wingers, and in back skinfold compared to wingers. Although this study is significant, because it examines the morphology of elite futsal players and indicates certain differences in the anthropometric characteristics of futsal players according to the positions in the team. However, we must interpret these results cautiously due to the limited sample size of participants.
... Currently, most studies focus on assessing kayak paddler performance from a physiological perspective , biomechanics (Kolumbet, 2017), and physical perspective (Bal & Singh, 2017;López-Plaza et al., 2017;Zharmenov et al., 2019). Additionally, strength and conditioning for competitive rowers have also been investigated (Nugent et al., 2020). ...
... It has also been stated that appropriate shoulder and calf circumference sizes may be important in this sport [7]. Canoe athletes have been found to have 12%-18% body fat [10]. In athletes, there is a phenomenon of somatic adaptation to the specificity of a given discipline and its associated training loads, as athletes with different body structures can react to training loads in different ways. ...
Objective
To determine the relationships between selected morphological characteristics and the level of body composition asymmetry with postural stability among canoeists and a control group.
Methods
The sample consisted of 43 males (21 canoeists 21.8±3.29 years and 22 university students 21.7±1.32 years). Measurements included body height and weight. Segmental body composition analysis was assessed using the bioelectrical impedance by determining: fat mass (FM, kg, %), fat-free mass (FFM, kg) and predicted muscle mass (PMM, kg). Postural stability was tested using the BIODEX Balance System. Anterior–posterior stability index (APSI), medial–lateral stability index (MLSI) and overall stability index (OSI) were calculated.
Results
Our findings suggest that the canoeists had statistically lower level of fatty tissue compared to controls. There was a statistically important difference between groups in lower limb FM (% and kg). In both groups morphological asymmetry was observed, but in most cases—in athletes. Asymmetries between right and left arms appeared in all parameters, while asymmetries between right and left legs were noted in all parameters except FM (kg). There were relationships between stature and body weight with postural stability in canoeists. Canoeists demonstrated better balance than controls, particularly in the APSI. For all stability indices, significant differences were observed between right and left legs across all participants.
Conclusions
Athletes, with larger asymmetries or poorer balance, require more attention to improve performance and reduce the risk of overload injury. Future studies needed to develop sport-specific level of morphofunctional asymmetry which would be optimal for sport results and health as well.
... However, the authors reported that soccer-specific and nonspecific motor coordination tests (i.e., dribble test without the ball and dribble test with the ball) were not related to maturity status [39]. Another study conducted among male paddlers indicated significantly superior fitness, anthropometric attributes, and better race times in advanced mature youngsters [40]. ...
Sports participation is one of the most popular forms of physical activity among youngsters. This study aimed to examine the changes in the estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility of adolescent boys after 12 months of soccer training compared with those of age-matched controls with non-sports participation. We assessed 137 boys (62 soccer players and 75 controls) at baseline (TM1) and 12 months later (TM2). The differences in estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility were investigated using a repeated measure analysis of variance. The analysis revealed a significant main effect of soccer training on fat mass (F = 73.503, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.59) and fat-free mass (F = 39.123, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.48). Over time, the soccer group decreased their fat mass and increased their fat-free mass, while the opposite results were observed for the controls. Among physical fitness tests, a substantial effect of soccer training was evidenced for the sit-up performance (F = 16.224, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.32). Regarding the time factor, significant effects were noted for height and handgrip strength. No significant differences were detected for flexibility. Overall, the benefits of soccer training were exhibited by the larger improvements in fat mass, fat-free mass, sit-ups, and handgrip strength performance, underlining the important role of soccer participation during adolescence.
... The order of the tests was selected according to the recommendations of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), which bases its recommendations on the fatigue generated by the different tests, as well as the metabolic pathways required by each of them, leaving a rest between trials of five minutes so that there was the minimum interference possible in the results [33]. In addition, the order followed in the tests has also been used in previous research in similar populations [34,35]. First, before the warmup, flexibility tests were performed [36]. ...
The aim of this research was to analyze differences in kinanthropometric characteristics and physical performance in relation to maturity status, as well as to determine if age, maturity offset or kinanthropometric variables could predict better performance in physical fitness tests. A total of 152 female volleyball players (14.16 ± 1.25 years old) underwent a kinanthropometric assessment, followed by a physical fitness assessment composed of different tests. The age at peak height velocity (APHV) was calculated, and the sample was divided according to biological maturation into three groups. Significant differences were observed in kinanthropometric variables (p < 0.001–0.026), with early maturers showing higher values. Age, body mass, Cormic index, relative arm span, ∑8 skinfolds, fat mass, corrected arm and thigh girths, muscle mass and biacromial and biiliocristal breadths were the variables that best predicted performance in the physical tests (p < 0.001–0.024). The more mature players showed higher values in most of the kinanthropometric variables, with the more remarkable differences being in body mass, height, arm span and sitting height, and those related to adiposity and absolute body composition, and with structural variables being the most influential on the physical tests. Age had a determinant influence on the differences found between groups in strength and power-related test performance.
... The morphological status of athletes is very important and it is known that morphological characteristics play an important role in achievements in most sports (López-Plaza, Alacid, Muyor, & López-Miñarro, 2017;Slimani & Nikolaidis, 2019, Banjevic et al., 2022. When selecting athletes, it is necessary that they possess an optimal level of morphological characteristics according to the re-quirements of a particular sport (Popović, Akpinar, Jakšić, Matić, & Bjelica, 2013;Slankamenac et al., 2021;Banjević et al., 2022). ...
Elite female karatekas should have specific morphological characteristics suitable for their specializations. This study aimed to determine the differences in morphological characteristics and body composition of female karatekas according to different specializations. This study consisted of a total of 15 female karatekas divided according to specialization in kumite (fighting) and kata (form or movement pattern) disciplines. The subject sample included healthy, female senior karatekas, with no prior injuries divided into kumite (n-8, 22.75±4.65 years) and kata (n-7, 22.00±4.58 years) athletes. Morphological characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). Based on the t-test for small independent samples, findings showed that female kata and kumite karatekas do not have different morphological characteristics. Although there was no difference in morphological characteristics, for more complete conclusions an analysis should be performed on a larger sample of elite female karate athletes.
... In kayaking and canoeing as a cyclical kind of sport, which is characterized by the work of a speed and strength character, monitoring the functional status of athletes throughout the year, assessing their degree of training, enduring large training loads and recovery are an urgent issue, especially during the training period for the main competitions of the sports season [13][14][15]. ...
... The morphological status of athletes is very important and nowadays it is known that morphological characteristics are directly related to success in sports (López-Plaza, Alacid, Muyor, & López-Miñarro, 2017;Slimani & Nikolaidis, 2019, Banjevic et al., 2022. It was established that according to the requirements of a certain sport, athletes must possess an optimal level of morphological characteristics (Popovic, Akpinar, Jaksic, Matic, & Bjelica, 2013;Masanovic, 2019;Slimani & Nikolaidis, 2019;Banjevic et al., 2022). ...
Elite karatekas should have specific morphological characteristics suitable for their specializations. This study aimed to determine the differences in morphological characteristics and body composition of elite Montenegrin karate athletes according to different specializations. This study consisted of a total of 16 male karate athletes divided according to specialization in kata (form or movement pattern) and kumite (fighting) disciplines. The subject sample included healthy, black belt karate senior athletes, with no prior injuries divided into kata (n-6, 19.83±4.71 years) and kumite (n-10, 20.4±5.21 years) athletes. Morphological characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). The differences in morphological characteristics and the composition of the body between kata and kumite karatekas were determined by using a statistical procedure with a t-test for small independent samples. It was determined that the kumite had a higher body height, and body weight, as well as a higher percentage of muscle mass than kata karatekas. In other parameters concerning the distribution of subcuta-neous adipose tissue, as well as the percentage of body fat, there was no difference between the groups. The results suggest that there is some difference in morphological characteristics between kata and kumite karatekas, but for more complete conclusions an analysis should be performed on a larger sample of high-level karate athletes.
... The determination of these variables, along with more established parameters, such as anthropometry, race distance, athlete experience (Jackson, 1995;López-Plaza et al., 2017), can help profiling the propulsive power of each paddler and in turn might help identify the optimal dimension of the paddle that improves performance. ...
This study aims to determine the propulsive force (Fp) and its timing of application during the paddle stroke confirming the dynamic balance between propulsive and drag powers (Pp = Pd) in kayaking performance. Ten male sub-elite paddlers participated in the study. The athletes carried out three trials of 50 m at three different velocity ranges: 2.70 - 3.00 m/ s; 3.01 - 3.50 m/s and 3.51 - 4.00 m/ s. A constant velocity during each trial was maintained and the section between 15 and 40 m of the total pool length was considered for further analysis. Data were collected using the E-kayak system provided of an instrumented paddle and 2D video analysis. It was observed that the propulsive force increases in intensity (up to 90% of the peak force) as the velocity increases. The dynamic balance between Pd and Pp was confirmed with a Bland and Altman plot (estimated bias: 0.2; LoA: 12.8 and 13.3 W). The related comparisons between the power parameters showed no significant difference (p > 0.050) in each of the considered velocity. By applying the dynamic balance theory between Pp = Pd on the data obtained from the interaction among GPS, force on the paddle and 2D video analysis, it is possible to acquire essential information (Fp, Pp) to monitor the flatwater kayaking performance.
... Current research indicates that the morphological characteristics of athletes are significantly associated with success in sport [1][2][3][4][5]. In relation to the demands of a certain sport, every athlete should possess optimal morphological characteristics [4,[6][7][8], and therefore Milanovic et al. [9] cite that their determination represents one of the three most frequently tested dimensions of athletes. ...
The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the differences in the morphological characteristics and situational precision among younger and older groups of handball players. The sample of participants consisted of 30 handball players, members of the younger category of the Al-Ahli handball club (Bahrein), divided into two groups: older (U16, n = 18) and younger (U15, n = 12). To evaluate their morphological characteristics, eight variables were measured, while two standardized tests were used to evaluate their situational precision. The results indicate that a statistically significant difference between the groups was noticeable for nine variables in total, seven in morphology (body height, p = 0.010; body mass index, p = 0.049; arm length, p = 0.009; upper arm length, p = 0.016; lower arm length, p = 0.040; the planimetric parameter of the hand, p = 0.005; hand length p = 0.004) and two in situational precision (the standing shot, p = 0.003; the jump shot, p = 0.17), and that the achieved difference ranges from a medium to a large effect. For only one variable (body mass, p = 0.734), significant difference was not determined between the groups. It was also determined (by Cohen's criterion) that handball players with higher longitudinal dimensionality achieve better results for specific precision. Therefore, when selecting young handball players, the aforementioned dimensions should be taken into consideration as predictors of success.
... All the aforementioned differences along with the fact that canoeists usually start specialising late in their sport careers after a certain time in kayaking (Alacid et al., 2015;López-Plaza et al., 2017) imply a major technical challenge for these young athletes. Since the level of paddling technique is related to energy cost and overall propelling efficiency, the development and domain of a proper canoeing technique especially in paddlers with limited experience become determinant in the pursuit of optimal results (Alacid et al., 2015;Zamparo et al., 1999). ...
Traditionally, canoeing analyses have always been carried out by calculating mean values over a certain distance. However, a simple analysis of mean values in cyclic actions, such as canoe paddling, can lead to the loss of decisive data. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate whether the relationship between the periods of consecutive strokes can be an important aspect in all-out 200-m canoeing performance. A total of 22 young male canoeists aged 13.51 ± 0.43 years old voluntarily participated in the present study. Lateral recordings were taken from all participants when performing an all-out 200 m to subsequently analyse the kinematic variables of time, speed and cycle frequency, length and index. The time of each stroke was calculated by the frame differencesbetween two successive paddles. Likewise, short-term and long-term steadiness of consecutive strokes were analysed. Positive correlations were observed between all-out 200-m time and inter-stroke steadiness, identifying significant associations with long-term (r ≈ 0.8; p < 0.05) and short-term steadiness (r ≈ 0.7; p < 0.05). In conclusion, the present investigation defines and identifies inter-stroke steadiness as a new original kinematic variable that might be considered for performance analysis since it seems to be a key factor in all-out 200-m canoeing.
... Consequently, study 2 found that athletes in the U15 category who matured earlier according to the non-invasive estimate are more likely to achieve better competitive results two to three years later. The results indicating that maturity status was a significant predictor of performance, are also observed in other sports López-Plaza et al., 2017). ...
... The fatigue caused by aerobic exercise can cause changes in the body's internal environment and produce physiological reactions. With the development of science and technology in recent years and the in-depth study of aerobic fatigue, in-depth research on the physiological mechanism of human aerobic fatigue using high-tech precision instruments has been widely carried out at home and abroad [12][13][14]. Understanding the physiological mechanism of fatigue can promote sports training. Coaches and athletes will adjust the training program according to the level of exercise and then carry out antifatigue training, delay the time of fatigue, and achieve the purpose of improving sports performance. ...
Node localization and temporal synchronization, as two key parts of each self-organized and localization-aware wireless sensor network (WSN), have been a key topic for research and applications. The initial prototype of the sensor network is the same as that of the local area network. All nodes are connected by wires, and there is a central control node. All nodes transmit data to the central node point-to-point. With the development and progress of wireless communication technology, the current sensor network has developed into a WSN. Without a central node, all nodes can communicate with each other; so, it is natural to develop positioning technology in WSN. Node positioning in wireless sensor networks refers to the process in which sensor nodes determine the location information of other nodes in the network through a certain positioning technology based on the location information of a few known nodes in the network. The principle of positioning is purely geometric in mathematics. With the in-depth promotion of WSN in the application field, there are more and more requirements for high precision positioning, the higher the positioning accuracy, the higher the requirements for network time synchronization, and the problem of node clock synchronization and high precision positioning of the node can be studied together. Solving the problem of node clock synchronization can further provide support for node positioning in a variety of different environments. As a new ultrabroadband (UWB) carrier-free communication technology with nanoscale temporal resolution, it has been widely used in high-precision node positioning systems in recent years, UWB technology is the most advanced noncarrier wireless communication technology that uses bandwidths above 1 GHz and uses nonsine wave narrow pulses from nanoseconds to picoseconds to transmit data. Therefore, it occupies a very wide spectrum. UWB technology has the advantages of low system complexity, low transmit signal power spectrum density, insensitive to channel fading, and high positioning accuracy. It is especially suitable for high-speed wireless access in dense multipath places such as indoors, providing a technical basis for the engineering implementation of high-precision positioning algorithms. However, the current situation of Chinese track and field events has not kept pace with the development of Chinese competitive sports, and even the level of individual events has a gradual decline. Therefore, it is very meaningful to study the relevant biological factors that affect sprint performance. This article analyzes the related biological factors that affect the performance of the sprint, combines the knowledge of physiology to analyze the training methods that appear in the sprint from the physiological perspective, and analyzes the related biological factors that affect the performance of the sprint. This article chooses to divide them into men’s group (3 groups) and women’s group (3 groups), with 4 people in each group. Experiment proved that after the experiment, these are the following factors: the fatigue of the nervous system, the technical difference of sprinting, the change of muscle fiber enzyme activity, the order of muscle fiber cross-sectional area and muscle activation, and the recruitment of muscle fiber types. Impact P value less than 0.05, which shows that the factors that affect sprint performance are complex, and the biological factors that affect step length can be studied through anthropometry. The impact of step frequency on sports performance is very important.
... The findings López-Plaza et al. (2017, Alacid and Carrasco (2004) confirm the importance of maturity status in sprint kayaking and canoeing since the more mature paddlers were also those who revealed largest body size, physical fitness level and best paddling performance. Additionally, the most important variables predicting performance times in kayaking and canoeing were maturity status and chronological age, respectively. ...
The aim of the study. To better understanding of the indicators of functional support for special endurance and physiological demands in canoeists at a distance of 1000 m.
Material and methods: 20 athletes (19-23 years) in canoeing from Shandong and Jiangxi provinces.
Results. According to the results of the analysis, the following typological groups of athletes-canoeists, specializing in the distance of 1000 m, with pronounced differences in the implementation of anaerobic energy supply. Typological groups of athletes had no significant differences in aerobic energy capacity (p > 0.05).
The first typological group (La max 90s 16.64 mmol·l-1, p
... Although the five machine learning algorithms have their own performance advantages, in general, the classification performance of the five machine learning algorithms has a small gap on this data set [23]. The experimental result is that more data sources can make the prediction results more accurate. ...
With the widespread use of intelligent teaching, data containing student performance information continues to emerge, and artificial intelligence technology based on big data has made a qualitative leap. At present, the prediction of college students’ sports performance is only based on the past performance, and it does not reflect the student’s training effect very well. In order to solve these problems, this paper puts forward the analysis and simulation of college sports performance fusion with adaptive federated deep learning algorithm, aiming to study the influencing factors of student sports performance and suggestions for improvement. This paper uses an adaptive federated learning method and a personalized federated learning algorithm based on deep learning and then proposes a student performance prediction method. These methods integrate the quantitative methods of motor skill assessment and establish standards for college students, which are good standards for evaluating college students’ sports skills. This paper adopts the performance prediction framework and then establishes the sports performance prediction model. Through the analysis of sports performance analysis examples, it is concluded that the model proposed in this paper can accurately predict the student’s sports performance, and the average accuracy rate of each sports item has reached 91.7%.
... Achievement in paddle sport is not only determined by good deployment and breeding but at the athlete's elite level to be able to compete with other countries requires a technological approach to achieve achievements in rowing. The branch of paddle sport is a measured sport, each supporting component of achievement, such as body structure, equipment used, physical components, etc., greatly determines the achievement of an athlete (Csonková & Kutlík, 2017;López-Plaza et al., 2017;Ochi et al., 2015;Zwingmann et al., 2020). ...
The purpose of this study was to find out the impact of balance exercises on the achievements of kayaking athletes 200 meters. The method used in this study is a survey using correlational. The sample selected was by criteria of the number of kayakers participating in the National Training Center for rowing in 2019, as many as 28 male athletes. Data analysis using a simple correlation with a significant level of 0.05, overall analysis of this data uses the help of SPSS program version 20.00. The finding is that the R Square value (determination coefficient) is 0.712, which means 71.2% of the total performance variation of 200m kayakers is caused by a simple correlate relationship with variable balance. This means that 71.2% of balance data has a direct influence on the performance of kayakers 200m in 2019 and the remaining 28.8% or (100% - 71.2% = 28.8%) caused by other factors such as weather conditions, mental condition, boat conditions, nutrition, recovery, athlete health conditions, and others
... Among the factors analyzed in the talent identification programs in sports, physical performance plays an important role, as it is considered one of the most determinant factors in the future sports performance of young athletes [4]. Other main components of talent identification models are the kinanthropometric variables, due to their relationship with sports performance [5]. In fact, programs when biological maturation is not assessed [36]. ...
There is a growing interest in knowing the relationship between biological maturation and sport performance-related variables of young athletes. The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between biological maturation, physical fitness, and kinanthropometric variables of athletes during their growing period, according to their sex. The systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement and the search protocol was registered in PROSPERO, code: CRD42020208397. A search through the PubMed, Web of Sciences, and EBSCO databases was performed. A total of 423 studies were screened and 13 were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was completed by using the mean and standard deviation of each variable according to each maturation status (early, on time, or late). Differences depending on maturation were found on physical fitness, with better results in the advanced maturational groups in the male population (standard mean difference (SMD) = 0.17–2.31; p < 0.001–0.05). Differences depending on maturation were found for kinanthropometric variables in males (SMD = 0.37–2.31; p < 0.001–0.002) and height and body mass in females (SMD = 0.96–1.19; p < 0.001). In conclusion, the early maturation group showed higher values in kinanthropometric variables and better results in physical fitness, highlighting the importance of the maturational process in the talent selection programs. Despite that, more research is needed to clarify the relationship of maturation with the other variables on female populations and the changes in the muscle and bone variables during the maturation processes of both sexes.
... Farklı spor disiplinlerinde aerobik kapasite ve güç değerleri incelendiğinde farklı sonuçlar elde edilmektedir (27). Tesch, 1983 yılında yaptığı çalışmada kano sporunun bir disiplini olan kayak üzerinde çalışmış ve aerobik güç değerlerini oldukça yüksek bulmakla birlikte; koşu, kürek ve yol bisikletine göre daha düşük değerlerin varlığını saptamıştır (28). ...
Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, postural sway and aerobic capacity parameters of canoeing athletes, and to compare these parameters between sprint and slalom canoeing athletes. Materials and Methods: A total of 34 male canoeing athletes that are composed of 15 sprint and 19 slalom canoeing athletes, with an average age of 20.4±1.6 years, were included in the study. Respiratory function and respiratory muscle strength of the athletes were measured with a digital spirometer, postural sway was measured with the Body Sway Module, and aerobic capacity was measured using a breath-by-breath automatic portable gas analysis system. Independent samples T-test was used to compare the variables obtained from sprint and slalom canoeing athletes. Statistical error level was taken as p<0.05. Results: It was determined that there were no statistically significant differences between the respiratory function, inspiratory and expiratory respiratory muscle strength, postural sway and aerobic capacity parameters of sprint and slalom canoeing athletes (p>0.05). Conclusion: The results obtained from this study reveal that sprint and slalom canoeing athletes have similar respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, postural sway and aerobic capacity. These results can be used as an initial reference to define training program requirements to increase peripheral muscle strength, respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, postüral sway, and aerobic capacity in canoeing athletes.
... In addition, the most important variables that predict performance time in kayaking are maturity status and chronological age [7]. This exercise is very close to the exercise of muscle strength and endurance, as well as swimming sports [8]. The athlete's level of fitness can influence the level of endurance of the athlete's speed in competing. ...
The aim of this study was to explore the kinanthropometric and physiological profile of elite freestyle paddlers. A total of fifteen (male, n = 8; female, n = 7) elite GB Freestyle Kayak Team paddlers participating in the 2023 World Championship volunteered. Anthropometric data were collected on standing height, sitting height, arm span, and body mass. Additionally, field-based tests assessed several functionally relevant attributes: Leg and back flexibility was measured through the sit-&-reach test; handheld dynamometers measured bilateral handgrip strength and an isometric mid-thigh pull assessed lower limb and back strength; and overhead medicine ball throws were performed to gauge upper body power. Within and between-sex comparisons were explored using paired and independent samples t-tests respectively, and Hedges’ g effect sizes were calculated to determine the magnitude of difference between conditions, reported as means ± SDs. Z-Scores for all parameters were individually calculated to assess participants in relation to grouped means. Male freestyle paddlers were taller and had greater sitting height and arm span than female paddlers. They were also functionally stronger and more powerful. Generally, freestyle paddlers have similar body proportions to slalom paddlers. Data from this study could be used as normative values for profiling, potentially outlining successful anthropometric and performance attributes. Even though freestyle paddling appears to depend heavily on strength and flexibility, more research is required to identify which performance metrics may be associated with better on-water freestyle performance.
Purpose — development of methodology for individual evaluating special fitness and competitive activity of highly skilled kayakers. The rationality of the rower’s movement structure is largely determined by the character of work and interaction of the posterior and anterior bundles of the deltoid muscle, which perform the rower’s arm movements during applying both “pulling” and “pushing” efforts. The following causes of individual rowing technique errors significantly affecting sports result were identified: general muscle rigidity, lack of sufficiently complete and timely muscle relaxation; untimely involvement of muscles in work (appearance of mutual activity zones of antagonist muscles); late start of muscle activity (inertial moments of movement of rower's body biolinks are not provided before water entrapment); protracted, too long muscle activity (movement is performed entirely at the expense of muscular activity, without the use of inertial and propelling forces); low speed of muscle engagement in work leading, as a rule, to the “drop” of efforts on the oar. Two groups of athletes with diametrically opposite levels of physical capacity development and one group, which was characterized by their uniform development, were distinguished. The first group was distinguished by the high indices of power and efficiency of the work performed while covering the competitive distance. Such athletes showed higher sports results on short distances. The second group was distinguished by high indices of the efficiency of applying efforts, symmetry of movements, and successful performances on long competitive distances. Such rowers were classified as athletes with predominant development of special endurance quality. The rowers of the third group differed in the average values of the above mentioned indices and demonstrated equal success on both short and long competitive distances. Athletes with preferential development of speed-strength qualities and rowers with an advantageous development of special endurance have no significant difference in speed of covering 500 m distance and heart rate. However, there are significant differences in other indices of special fitness. Rowers with even development of physical qualities have differences in all recorded indices compared to those of the first two groups. The individual peculiarities of rowers’ movement coordination during covering a competitive distance of 500 m were determined. All rowers are divided into two groups. The first group is characterized by rational coordination of movements at the beginning of the distance covering and pronounced disturbances in the work dynamics of the muscles of the body turn and the nature of effort applied to the oar at the end of the distance. In the second group, we encounter the opposite phenomenon: with an irrational movement structure at the beginning of the distance, there is a transition of work to a more correct character at the end of its covering. The most preferable option for increasing the efficiency of athletes’ technical preparation is the use of the methodology for designing generalized and individual models of motor action structure. Preparation of rowers with account for their predisposition to the formation of the most important components of sportsmanship is the most preferable option. When drawing up individual plans for the preparation of athletes, the coaches should take into account these practical recommendations and adhere to the recommended directions of training. Repeated examinations (four months later) revealed the effectiveness of managing the process of technical preparation of kayakers based on the correction of intermuscular coordination.
Over the past two decades the importance of trunk contribution to sporting performance has been highlighted through the expanse of literature concerning core stability and strength. However, the role of trunk motion and the abdominal muscles are yet to be established during sprint kayak performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations among trunk rotation, kayak velocity, and abdominal muscle activity during on-water sprint kayaking. Eight international paddlers completed five 150 m sprint trials. During each trial peak muscle activation (peak root-mean-squared electromyogram) of the latissimus dorsi, rectus abdominus, external obliques and rectus femoris for ipsilateral (stroke side) and contralateral (opposite side) were recorded as the paddler passed through a 5-m calibrated volume, in conjunction with upper and lower trunk rotation and kayak velocity. Results indicated a significant strong negative relationship between lower trunk rotation and peak velocity (r = −0.684, p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant strong positive relationship (p < 0.05) with mean velocity was identified for the contralateral rectus abdominus and multiple significant associations between the rectus femoris, rectus abdominus and external obliques during the paddle stroke. Findings indicate that limiting the rotation of the lower trunk will increase both the peak and the mean velocity, with the rectus abdominus, external oblique and rectus femoris combining to assist in this process. Training should therefore focus on developing the strength of these muscle groups to enhance performance.
Introduction: Performance in Canoeing and Kayaking depends upon different factors and Somatotype is one of the most important factors of these. The present study aimed to find out the somatotype of Indian national level Canoeists and Kayakers who participated in International and National level competitions. Methods: 27 national level Canoeists and Kayakers were studied for their Somatotype. All subjects were selected from different water sports training centers across the country. Out of 27 athletes, 11 were male athletes (seven Canoeists and four Kayakers) and 16 were female athletes (6 Canoeists and 10 Kayakers). Heath-Carter method (1967) was followed for Somatotyping. Results: Average somatotype of 3.4(±0.9)-5.0(±0.8)-3.4(±2.1) was observed for the male Canoeists and Kayakers whereas that of females was 5.9(±1.6)-4.7(±1.1)-2.0(±1.1). Thus, the male Indian National Canoeists and Kayakers were with Balanced mesomorph somatotype on average whereas the female counterparts were Mesomorphic endomorph. The average muscularity of both male and female Canoeists and Kayakers was moderate. Conclusions: Ectomorphic mesomorph somatotype is the ideal body type for a sportsman in Water sports. Besides Somatotype characteristics, the muscularity of an athlete represents muscular strength which is an important factor for good performance in water sports and generates the required energy for paddling. Moderate muscularity of both male and female Indian Canoeists and Kayakers could hinder good performance in international arenas like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. Thus Indian Canoeists and Kayakers should improve their muscularity with proper training and nutrition.
In the present study, 100 athletes who competed at the state level was constitute up the sample; only male athletes from Madhya Pradesh in the senior category was included. During the morning and evening sessions, the necessary information on the subject was gathered using the random sampling method. before the National camps and practicing at TT Nagar Stadium Bhopal. The data were collected on anthropometric variables i.e. height, weight, sitting height, (leg, arm, hand) length, shoulder width, (chest, hip, thigh, calf) circumference, (back, shoulder, grip and leg explosive) strength. The anthropometric variables were measured by using selected standardized instruments and measuring tapes. Data collected was analysed at 0.05 level of significance, descriptive statistics and multiple discriminant analysis was applied to classify and predict group membership of the throwers into the sprinters and Throwers. The results showed that 100.0% of original grouped cases were correctly classified.
The purpose of this study was to develop a discriminate model to classify throwers (discus, javelin and hammer) on the basis of anthropometric variables and to predict their group membership based on the developed model. There were 25 discus throwers, 25 hammer throwers and 25 javelin throwers of age group 17-25 selected as subjects. The data were collected on anthropometric variables i.e. height, weight, sitting height, (leg, arm, hand) length, shoulder width, (chest, hip, thigh, calf) circumference, (back, shoulder, grip and leg explosive) strength. The anthropometric variables were measured by using selected standardized instruments and measuring tapes. Data collected was analyzed at 0.05 level of significance, descriptive statistics and multiple discriminant analysis was applied to classify and predict group membership of the throwers into the discus, hammer and javelin. The results showed that 68.0% of original grouped cases were correctly classified and 45.3% of cross-validated grouped cases correctly classified.
Introduction: Anthropometric and physical fitness data can predict sport-specific performance (e.g., canoe sprint race time) in young athletes. Of note, inter-item correlations (i.e., multicollinearity) may exist between tests assessing similar physical qualities. However, multicollinearity among tests may change across age and/or sex due to age-/sex-specific non-linear development of test performances. Therefore, the present study aimed at analyzing inter-item correlations between anthropometric, physical fitness, and sport-specific performance data as a function of age and sex in young canoe sprint athletes.
Methods: Anthropometric, physical fitness, and sport-specific performance data of 618 male and 297 female young canoe sprint athletes (discipline: male/female kayak, male canoe) were recorded during a national talent identification program between 1992 and 2019. For each discipline, a correlation matrix (i.e., network analysis) was calculated for age category (U13, U14, U15, U16) and sex including anthropometrics (e.g., standing body height, body mass), physical fitness (e.g., cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle power), and sport-specific performance (i.e., 250 and 2,000-m on-water canoe sprint time). Network plots were used to explore the correlation patterns by visual inspection. Further, trimmed means (μtrimmed) of inter-item Pearson's correlations coefficients were calculated for each discipline, age category, and sex. Effects of age and sex were analyzed using one-way ANOVAs.
Results: Visual inspection revealed consistent associations among anthropometric measures across age categories, irrespective of sex. Further, associations between physical fitness and sport-specific performance were lower with increasing age, particularly in males. In this sense, statistically significant differences for μtrimmed were observed in male canoeists (p < 0.01, ξ = 0.36) and male kayakers (p < 0.01, ξ = 0.38) with lower μtrimmed in older compared with younger athletes (i.e., ≥U15). For female kayakers, no statistically significant effect of age on μtrimmed was observed (p = 0.34, ξ = 0.14).
Discussion: Our study revealed that inter-item correlation patterns (i.e., multicollinearity) of anthropometric, physical fitness, and sport-specific performance measures were lower in older (U15, U16) versus younger (U13, U14) male canoe sprint athletes but not in females. Thus, age and sex should be considered to identify predictors for sport-specific performance and design effective testing batteries for talent identification programs in canoe sprint athletes.
This study aimed to examine the physical fitness of athletes and identify their talents by measuring and evaluating their physical fitness and to review the studies regarding competitive history and health of athletes. Generally, the physical fitness levels of athletes are higher than those of nonathletes. Besides the studies assessing the association between physical fitness and injury, studies aimed to predict performance from physical fitness data exist. Several studies attempting to identify talents using physical fitness tests based on such findings exist. Improving performance by identifying and training talents at early ages is common. However, the optimum age of sports specialization has been reconsidered. Some athletes choose their specialization after trying several sports and training styles. For example, in Japan, junior high school students who play sports regularly tend to quit sports after graduation. This tendency may be partly due to the competitive education in Japan. Delayed sports specialization may improve the mental and physical health of athletes. It has recently been reported that there are some issues in promoting the health of former athletes. In youth sports, intense training may significantly increase the risk of injury. As described above, my review of the findings of the physical fitness of athletes identified several issues related to the accurate evaluation of physical fitness and the performance and health of athletes. Future studies should further determine possible methods to improve the performance and health of athletes and former athletes by analyzing the increasing data volume on the physical fitness of athletes.
Background
The identification of sport talent among adolescent athletes is a topic that in recent years has been a major focus of interest for both the scientific community and sport managers. Both anthropometry and physical performance through fitness tests have demonstrated to be key elements. Biological maturation, due to its influence on anthropometric variables and physical fitness, has also been studied in relation to sport talent identification.
Objective
To analyse differences according to biological maturation status in anthropometric characteristics and performance in physical fitness tests, and to determine which variables predict better performance in physical fitness tests in adolescent volleyball players.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was followed to collect the data. A total of 48 male sub-elite volleyball players (14.17 ± 0.73 years) completed a socio-demographic and sports ad hoc questionnaire. Anthropometric variables were measured following the guidelines of the International Society for the Advancement in Kinanthropometry (ISAK) including four basic measurements (body mass, height, sitting height and arm span); eight skinfolds (triceps, biceps, subscapular, iliac crest, supraspinale, abdominal, thigh and calf); four girths (arm relaxed, flexed and tensed arm, middle thigh and calf); five breadths (biacromial, biileocrestal, humerus, femur and bi-styloid); three lengths (acromiale-radiale, radiale-stylion and stylion-medio dactilion); and a height (ilioespinale). Physical fitness was assessed, including the sit-and-reach, back scratch, long jump, medicine ball throw, counter movement jump (CMJ), 20 meters sprint, and agility tests. Furthermore, maturity offset and age at peak height velocity (APHV) was calculated.
Results
Significant differences were found in the body mass (Mean Difference, MD = 20.86–30.75), height (MD = 11.72–19.09), sitting height (MD = 4.27–10.27), arm span (MD = 12.91–20.78), body mass index (MD = 3.72–5.63), upper limb length (MD = 7.76), corrected muscle girths (MD = 2.06–9.31), ∑6 and 8 skinfolds (MD = 3.67–50.21) fat mass and percentage (MD = 0.30–11.58), muscle (MD = 4.13–10.64) and bone mass (MD = 1.61–3.54) ( p < 0.001–0.030), showing higher values the early maturers. In the physical fitness tests, significant differences were observed in the medicine ball throw (MD = 1.26–2.80) and in CMJ power (MD = 156.71–379.85) ( p < 0.001). Regression models identified fat mass percentage predicted worse physical test performance ( p < 0.001), while age, maturation offset, muscle and bone variables were predictors of better physical performance ( p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Significant differences based upon the stages of biological maturation were found in the anthropometric and physical condition variables in favor of the players whose maturation process was more advanced, with the variables related to fat and adipose, muscle and bone development conditioning their performance in the physical condition tests.
Background:
Water polo is a team sport that requires not only high levels of power and strength but a robust morphology with big body dimensions for an optimal performance. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between anthropometric variables, maturity, grip strength and throwing speed in young water polo competitors.
Methods:
Body composition, biological age, grip strength and throwing speed were evaluated in 28 elite water polo players (15.74±0.83 years old) with competition experience (7.35±1.68 years). The participants were divided into two maturity groups based on the percentage of adult height attained at the moment of assessment (<98% and >98%).
Results:
Significant differences and moderate effect sizes were observed across sitting height and upper body lengths and breadths in the more mature players of the >98% group compared with those observed in the <98% group (d>0.42; P<0.05). A large effect size in maturity status and percentage of adult height (d>0.82) was also identified in the >98% players. In addition, significant correlations (P<0.05) were determined between upper and lower body girths and not opposition throwing speed (NOT). Similarly, a linear regression analysis revealed that biacromial breadth, arm girth and medial calf skinfold significantly contributed in predicting NOT speed (r2=0.82; P<0.01).
Conclusions:
These findings suggest that body structure is positively related to throwing speed in young water polo players. Furthermore, the results of the present investigation might be useful for talent identification purposes.
V posledních letech se setkáváme s požadavky vrcholového sportu, aby diagnostika
byla úkolově specifická, tedy v co možná nejvyšší míře shodná s pohybovým projevem
dané specializace. Funkční spiroergometrické vyšetření při úkolově specifické
diagnostice (pádlování na rychlostní kanoi) je porovnáváno se standardně
a dlouhodobě využívanou klikovou ergometrií horních končetin a pádlováním na
kanoistickém trenažéru. Cílem studie bylo zjistit vztahy a rozdíly mezi jednotlivými
zátěžovými protokoly. Zjištěné vztahy i rozdíly potvrzují nenapodobitelnost vysoce
specifického zatížení jízdy na kánoi z fyziologického hlediska. Vrcholovým
závodníkům lze zátěžový protokol spiroergometrického vyšetření při jízdě na kánoi
doporučit v tréninkovém procesu při procesní i stavové diagnostice. Přesná znalost
fyziologických hodnot při specifickém typu zatížení může vést ke zkvalitnění
tréninkového procesu, vzestupu trénovanosti i výkonnosti.
Talent identification is currently an option for stakeholders in sports to determine athletes who have talent and have the opportunity to succeed in the future. This is still being debated and proven through ongoing studies. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a Systematic Literature Review is to find answers to the following questions: (1) What methods are used in TI research? (2)What are the consideration criteria used in TI? (3) Which sports has been researched for talent search? From the SLR results, it was found that the sports that often used talent identification were football, rugby, and basketball. While the dominant criteria used in talent identification are physical, anthropometrics, technical and maturity. Talent identification research is often in the form of correlation, regression and experimental studies using MANOVA. The contribution of the SLR results is to discover the novelty of talent identification research in terms of sports, criteria, and methods used. Meanwhile, from the practical side, this paper will be useful for developing a talent identification model that can be applied and helping volleyball trainers to determine talented athletes.
This research aimed to identify the talent needed by kayak athletes between 14-16 years old. Furthermore, the data gathered in this study would be analyzed by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in order to find out which element has significant roles in supporting kayak athletes. Mixed-Method Research (MMR) was employed in this research by using a literature study and administering a questionnaire to 32 professional coaches consisting of twenty eight male and four female coaches. The rationale for selecting these coaches is to identify their opinions regarding the talent criteria of selecting kayak athletes. The result of the analysis showed that there were five parameters that could be used to identify the talent of kayak athletes, such as anthropometry (height and weight), biomechanics (endurance and strength), psychology (self-confidence and focus), special endurance (aerobic and anaerobic; physiology), and skills (catch and pull-push). This talent identification model provides information for coaches, athletes, and parents to find out the talent of kayak athletes.
ANATOLIA SPORT RESEARCH- İNTERNATIONAL OPEN ACCESS JOURNAL
El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el somatotipo de jóvenes deportistas en función de su deporte y grupo de edad. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 516 deportistas de ambos sexos del Centro de Tecnificación de Cheste (Valencia) clasi-ficados en 3 grupos de edad: 12-13, 14-16 y 17-20 años, y de las especialidades de-portivas de atletismo, natación y triatlón. Los datos antropométricos se han obteni-do mediante el protocolo ISAK. Los resultados del Análisis de Varianza (ANOVA) indican que para el endomorfismo y ectomorfismo se han encontrado diferencias significativas (p<0.05) entre los tres deportes. Para el mesomorfismo se han en-contrado diferencias significativas (p<0.05) de atletismo con triatlón, y de triatlón con natación, no encontrando diferencias significativas (p>0.05) de atletismo con natación. En los grupos de edad, para el endomorfismo se han encontrado diferen-cias significativas (p<0.05) del grupo de 12-13 con el de 14-16 años, y con el de 17-20 años, y entre el grupo de 14-16 con el de 17-20 años. Para el mesomorfismo se han encontrado diferencias significativas (p<0.05) entre el grupo de 14-16 con el de 17-20 años, no encontrando diferencias significativas entre el grupo de 12-13 con el de 14-20 años, y con el de 17-20 años.
Підвищення ефективності контролю на основі оцінки та інтерпретації показників, зареєстрованих у процесі моделювання умов реалізації спеціальних можливостей веслувальників на дистанції 200, 500 і 1000 м, порівняння узагальнених, групових та індивідуальних модельних характеристик функціонального забезпечення спеціальної роботоздатності, конкретизації можливостей спрямованого використання результатів контролю в практиці спортивної підготовки веслувальників на байдарках і каное вимагає обґрунтування нового методичного підходу, розробленого відповідно до структури функціонального забезпечення спеціальної роботоздатності залежно від кваліфікації та спеціалізації спортсменів. Застосування загальних підходів, описаних у спеціальній літературі, вимагає переосмислення і модифікації відповідно до цільових установок спортивної підготовки на конкретному етапі спортивного вдосконалення. Реалізація такого підходу має важливе значення для підвищення ефективності спортивної підготовки веслувальників Китаю на основі застосування науково-методичного підходу, що дозволить раціональніше використати значні матеріальні і людські ресурси країни. Мета. Розробити програму контролю та критерії формалізованої оцінки функціонального забезпечення спеціальної роботоздатності веслувальників на байдарках і каное з урахуванням спеціалізації на дистанції 200, 500 і 1000 м. Методи. Аналіз наукової літератури, тестування, методи математичної статистики. Результати. Розроблено багатокомпонентний комплекс тестових завдань, який дає можливість визначити ефективність функціонального забезпечення спеціальної роботоздатності веслувальників на байдарках і каное з урахуванням спеціалізації на дистанції 200, 500 і 1000 м. Комплекс дозволяє оцінити потенціал спортсменів з урахуванням їхньої схильності до роботи анаеробного або аеробного характеру. Композиція тестових завдань включає два блоки тестів. Перший – спрямований на оцінку потужності і ємності анаеробного енергозабезпечення, другий – потужності і ємності аеробного енергозабезпечення. Вона передбачає послідовну реалізацію та реєстрацію потужності і ємності системи енергозабезпечення. В процесі тестування оцінюється швидкість розгортання початкової частини реакції кардіореспіраторної системи і ступінь її збільшення в умовах накопичення втоми. Розроблено формалізовану оцінку функціонального забезпечення спеціальної роботоздатності веслувальників. Визначено три рівні значень показників. Перший – відображає унікальні характеристики підготовленості та природні задатки спортсменів; другий – нормативні характеристики, які свідчать про професійну придатність і можливості подальшого спортивного вдосконалення; третій – знижені можливості спортивного вдосконалення в виді спорту.
The aim of this study was to describe and compare the kinanthropometric characteristics, maturity status, somatotype and proportionality between young female sprint and slalom kayakers. Fifty young female kayakers (26 sprint; 24 slalom), aged 13 and 14 years old, were assessed using a battery of 29 anthropometric dimensions. Body fat, somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and maturity status expressed as the time to/from the age of peak height velocity were calculated. Sprint kayakers were taller and had a higher sitting height than slalom kayakers, these differences could be explained by the greater maturity status in the sprint paddlers group. Proportionality values were similar in most of the variables analysed. Mean somatotypes were best described as mesomorphy endomorph in both groups, while slalom kayakers exhibited a higher heterogeneity. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint and slalom female kayakers.
The aims of this study were: 1) to determine the differences in hamstring extensibility between kneeling and forward legs in a group of canoeists; 2) to compare hamstring extensibility between canoeists and kayakers; and 3) to compare the sagittal spinal posture and pelvic tilt in the maximal trunk flexion with knees extended in kayakers and canoeists. Ninety-nine young male paddlers (17.51±6.15 years) (35 kayakers, 35 right-side canoeists and 29 left-side canoeists) participated in this study. Hamstring muscle extensibility was determined in both legs throughout the passive straight-leg raise test (PSLR) and the sit-and-reach test. Sagittal spinal curvatures and pelvic tilt were measured in the maximal trunk flexion with knees extended (sit-and-reach test) using a Spinal Mouse. The hamstring extensibility of the forward leg was higher than the kneeling leg ones in both groups of canoeists (p<.001). No significant differences were found between the right and left legs in kayakers. The kayakers showed the highest values in PSLR, sit-and-reach test, lumbar angle and pelvic tilt, whereas the canoeists obtained the lowest values in the thoracic angle. There were no significant differences between the canoeists who paddle on the left and those that paddle on the right side of the canoe either in the spinal or in the pelvic postures. In conclusion, the asymmetric movement of canoeing is associated with differences in hamstring extensibility between the kneeling and forward legs. The canoeists showed higher extensibility in the forward leg than in the kneeling leg. Furthermore, a greater hamstring extensibility is associated with a lower thoracic angle and higher lumbar flexion and pelvic tilt in the sit-and-reach test.
Canoe sprint is divided into canoe and kayak. The difference between the two competitions is in physical performance. The aim of the present study was to compare and investigate the relationship between physical characteristics and fitness between the two canoe sprint competitors.
Subjects were 11 canoe paddlers (C) and 12 kayak paddlers (K). They underwent anthropometric characteristics, body composition and fitness tests, and 120 s all-out tests using a canoe and kayak ergometer. The unpaired t-test was used to test for significant differences between disciplines, while Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to examine the association between each measurement item and the performance test.
The age, height, body mass, body mass index, and total body fat were, C: 20.6±0.9 yr, 172.8±5.2 cm, 70.8±7.8 kg, 23.7±1.9, 14.4%±3.5%; and K: 19.7±1.2 yr, 172.8±5.3 cm, 69.5±7.8 kg, 23.2±2.1, 12.1%±3.6%, respectively. No significant differences were seen in any of the items for physical characteristics or fitness between C and K. A correlation analysis of performance tests and each measurement item revealed a positive correlation with low-speed isokinetic knee extension and flexion strength for C only (extension: r=0.761; flexion: r=0.784; P<0.01). In addition, performance tests were positively correlated with the circumference of arm (upper arm: r=0.876; forearm: r=0.820; P<0.01) and lower limb (thigh: r=0.781; calf: r=0.753; P<0.01) in C and with height (r=0.549, P<0.05), arm span (r=0.639, P<0.05), and leg length (r=0.621, P<0.01) in K.
We suggest that the factors correlating with the performance test differ depending on the competitions.
The aims of this study were to describe and compare kinanthropometric characteristics of elite young kayakers and canoeists and to compare their proportionality with Olympic paddlers. One hundred and twenty young elite sprint paddlers (66 kayakers and 58 canoeists), aged 13- and 14-years-old, were assessed using a battery of 32 anthropometric dimensions. Somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and corrected girths were calculated. Comparison between kayakers and canoeists showed that kayakers had greater height, body weight, sitting height, arm span and upper body lengths, breadths and girths than canoeists. Higher proportional humerus breadth and arm girths were also found in kayakers. However, canoeists had higher Z-scores in femur breadth. Olympic paddlers had higher proportional dimensions in upper body girths, and biacromial breadth in both disciplines. Mean somatotypes of kayakers were best described as balanced mesomorphs, while canoeists were ecto-mesomorphs. Differences between kayak and canoe paddlers may be explained by the continual need for physical development in kayakers, in order to remain competitive, compared to the young canoeists' need to place much greater emphasis on the development of their technical ability. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint canoeing and kayaking.
Morphological characteristics of young elite paddlers
The aims of this study were to describe kinanthropometric characteristics of elite male and female young paddlers and to compare their proportionality with Olympic paddlers. One hundred and eighty seven young elite sprint paddlers (124 males and 63 females), aged 13 and 14 years, were assessed using a battery of 31 anthropometric dimensions. Somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and corrected girths were calculated. Comparison between the 13 and 14 year old paddlers showed that 14 year old males had greater height, body weight, sitting height, arm span and upper body lengths, breadths and girths than their 13 year old counterparts, whereas 14 year old female paddlers only differed significantly from the 13 year olds in biacromial breadth and corrected arm girth. Mean somatotypes of male paddlers were best described as balanced mesomorphs, while female paddlers were centrals. Olympic paddlers had higher proportional dimensions in upper body girths, and biacromial breadth in both genders. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint canoeing and kayaking.
The aim of this study was to describe and compare the kinanthropometric characteristics, maturity status, somatotype and proportionality between young female sprint and slalom kayakers. Fifty young female kayakers (26 sprint; 24 slalom), aged 13 and 14 years old, were assessed using a battery of 29 anthropometric dimensions. Body fat, somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and maturity status expressed as the time to/from the age of peak height velocity were calculated. Sprint kayakers were taller and had a higher sitting height than slalom kayakers, these differences could be explained by the greater maturity status in the sprint paddlers group. Proportionality values were similar in most of the variables analysed. Mean somatotypes were best described as mesomorphy endomorph in both groups, while slalom kayakers exhibited a higher heterogeneity. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint and slalom female kayakers.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between maximal sprinting (MSS) and aerobic (MAS) speeds in a cohort of highly-trained young male soccer players with the influence of body mass controlled for using allometric scaling. MSS and MAS were obtained in 14 pre-age at peak height velocity (APHV) players (12.3 ± 0.7 years), 21 circum-APHV players (14.3 ± 0.9 year) and 26 post-APHV players (16.9 ± 0.7 years). The three groups showed similar positive correlations between MSS and MAS (r = 0.73 to 0.52; p < .01). In conclusion, our results suggest that the relationship between MSS and MAS is not affected by maturation.
We investigated age-related differences in the relationships among acceleration, maximum running speed, and repeated-sprint performance in 61 highly trained young male soccer players (Under 14, n = 14; Under 16, n = 22; Under 18, n = 25). We also examined the possible influence of anthropometry (stature, body mass, fat-free mass) and biological maturation (age at peak height velocity) on performance in those three sprint-running qualities. Players were tested for 10-m sprint (acceleration), flying 20-m sprint (maximum running speed), and 10 × 30-m sprint (repeated-sprint performance) times. Correlations between acceleration, maximum running speed, and repeated-sprint performance were positive and large to almost perfect (r = 0.55-0.96), irrespective of age group. There were age-based differences both in absolute performance in the three sprint-running qualities (Under 18 > Under 16 > Under 14; P < 0.001) and when body mass and fat-free mass were statistically controlled (P < 0.05). In contrast, all between-group differences disappeared after adjustment for age at peak height velocity (P > 0.05). The large correlations among acceleration, maximum running speed, and repeated-sprint performance in all age groups, as well as the disappearance of between-group differences when adjusted for estimated biological maturity, suggest that these physical qualities in young highly trained soccer players might be considered as a general quality, which is likely to be related to qualitative adaptations that accompany maturation.
Sidney and Shephard (1973) were the first to report on the morphology of slalom paddlers and characterized them as having “a substantial standing height and lean body mass, good general muscle development with particular emphasis on the leg muscles”. The purpose of this study was to analyse the morphological characteristics of Olympic slalom kayak and canoe paddlers to determine whether they possess unique physique or structural characteristics that provide an advantage for their sport. Thirty-one male and 12 female slalom paddlers were measured using a battery of 36 anthropometric dimensions in the 15-day period before competition at the 2000 Olympic Games. Male slalom paddlers were older, lighter, shorter, and leaner than previously reported slalom paddlers and had similar height and weight to a reference population of non-athletes. Compared with Olympic sprint paddlers, male slalom paddlers were older, lighter and shorter, and had similar body fat and almost identical proportionality characteristics. Female slalom paddlers were taller, lighter, older, and less fat than those reported previously. They were taller and lighter than the reference population of non-athletes and of similar age and height but lighter and leaner than the Olympic sprint paddlers. While a high brachial index was reported for both male and female slalom paddlers, the Best male paddlers (those ranked in the top 10 placings) were more compact, had smaller proportional hip girth, and showed a tendency for smaller proportional hip breadth but a larger proportional waist girth than the Rest (those not ranked in the top 10 placings). Changes to the technical aspect of the events and to competition rules and the nature and approach to training were explored as possible reasons for some of these differences. We outline the contribution this research makes to talent identification and highlight the need for further research.
Elite flat-water kayak paddlers were characterized with regard to body composition, muscle strength and endurance for upper-body exercise. Furthermore, maximal oxygen uptake was measured during three types of exercise: treadmill running, arm cranking and outdoor paddling. Blood samples for subsequent lactate analysis were collected not only after maximal exercises but also during training sessions and post 1000 m racing. In comparison with other groups of athletes known to exhibit great upper-body muscle strength, kayakers were found to possess high values for shoulder strength, endurance and anaerobic capacity. Total body maximal oxygen uptake averaged (+/- SD) 5.36 +/- 0.25 l X min-1. The values for arm cranking and paddling were 4.30 +/- 0.29 l X min-1 and 4.67 +/- 0.16 l X min-1. High blood lactate levels were noticed under training conditions and post competition (11.0-17.5 mmol X l-1). Taken together, the present study suggests success in flat-water kayak racing to require great upper-body muscle strength, anaerobic capacity and endurance in addition to high aerobic power.
In order to validate a maximal multistage 20-m shuttle run test for the prediction of VO2 max, 91 adults (32 females and 59 males, aged 27.3 +/- 9.2 and 24.8 +/- 5.5 year respectively and with mean VO2 max (+/- SD) of 39.3 +/- 8.3 and 51.6 +/- 7.8 ml . kg-1 . min-1 respectively) performed the test and had VO2 max estimated by the retroextrapolation method (extrapolation to time zero of recovery of the exponential least squares regression of the first four 20-s recovery VO2 values). Starting at 8 km . h-1 and increasing by 0.5 km . h-1 every 2 min, the 20-m shuttle run test enabled prediction of the VO2 max (y, ml . kg-1 . min-1) from the maximal speed (x, km . h-1) by means of the following regression equation: y = 5.857x - 19.458; r = 0.84 and SEE = 5.4. Later, the multistage protocol was slightly modified to its final version, in which the test started at stage 7 Met and continued with a 1 Met (3.5 ml O2 . kg-1 . min-1) increment every 2 min. Twenty-five of the 91 subjects performed the 20-m shuttle test twice, once on a hard, low-friction surface (vinyl-asbestos tiles) and another time on a rubber floor, as well as a walking maximal multistage test on an inclined treadmill. There was no difference between the means of these tests or between the slopes of the VO2max - maximal speed regressions for the two types of surfaces. The 20-m shuttle run test and another maximal multistage field test involving continuous track running gave comparable results (r = 0.92, SEE = 2.6 ml O2 . kg-1 . min-1, n = 70). Finally, test and retest of the 20-m shuttle run test also yielded comparable results (r = 0.975, SEE = 2.0 ml O2 . kg-1 . min-1, n = 50). It is concluded that the 20-m shuttle run test is valid and reliable test for the prediction of the VO2 max of male and female adults, individually or in groups, on most gymnasium surfaces.
The range of variability between individuals of the same chronological age (CA) in somatic and biological maturity is large and especially accentuated around the adolescent growth spurt. Maturity assessment is an important consideration when dealing with adolescents, from both a research perspective and youth sports stratification. A noninvasive, practical method predicting years from peak height velocity (a maturity offset value) by using anthropometric variables is developed in one sample and cross-validated in two different samples.
Gender specific multiple regression equations were calculated on a sample of 152 Canadian children aged 8-16 yr (79 boys; 73 girls) who were followed through adolescence from 1991 to 1997. The equations included three somatic dimensions (height, sitting height, and leg length), CA, and their interactions. The equations were cross-validated on a combined sample of Canadian (71 boys, 40 girls measured from 1964 through 1973) and Flemish children (50 boys, 48 girls measured from 1985 through 1999).
The coefficient of determination (R2) for the boys' model was 0.92 and for the girls' model 0.91; the SEEs were 0.49 and 0.50, respectively. Mean difference between actual and predicted maturity offset for the verification samples was 0.24 (SD 0.65) yr in boys and 0.001 (SD 0.68) yr in girls. Conclusion: Although the cross-validation meets statistical standards for acceptance, caution is warranted with regard to implementation. It is recommended that maturity offset be considered as a categorical rather than a continuous assessment. Nevertheless, the equations presented are a reliable, noninvasive and a practical solution for the measure of biological maturity for matching adolescent athletes
The aim of this study was to identify anthropometric and biomotor variables that discriminated among groups of elite adolescent female athletes aged 14.3 +/- 1.3 years (mean +/- s) from four different sports (tennis, n = 15; swimming, n = 23; figure skating, n = 46; volleyball, n = 16). The anthropometric variables included body mass, height, bi-epicondylar breadth of the distal extremity of the humerus and femur, maximal girth of the calf and biceps and the sum of five adipose skinfolds. The biomotor variables were maximal aerobic power, muscular endurance and flexibility of the trunk. Discriminant analysis revealed three significant functions (P < 0. 05). The first discriminant function primarily represented differences between figure skaters and all other groups of athletes. The other two underlined anthropometric and biomotor differences between swimmers and volleyball players and between tennis players and swimmers, respectively. After validation, the analysis showed that 88% of the athletes were correctly classified in their respective sports. Our model confirms that elite adolescent female athletes show physical and biomotor differences that clearly distinguish them according to their particular sport.
The estimation of total-body skeletal muscle mass (SMM) has been predicted in healthy adults using anthropometric measurements and urine creatinine excretion. SMM measurement is compulsory to evaluate exercise performance and the influence of physical training on muscle mass. However, there is a lack of information on children and adolescents when quantifying appendicular skeletal muscle mass.
Thirty-nine Caucasian children and adolescents (male and female, 7-16 yr old) and 20 adults (men and women, 20-24 yr old) were tested for total-body SMM using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry measurement (DEXA), anthropometric measurements (ANTHR), and urine creatinine (UCrn) determination. Skinfold thickness and circumference were measured at mid-arm (CAG), mid-thigh (CTG), and mid-calf (CCG) and the skin-corrected circumferences (cm), together with height (Ht; m), age (yr), and sex (0 for female, 1 for male). The UCrn excretion (g.24 h(-1)) was also determined in all subjects. The ANTHR and UCrn measurements were then compared with DEXA as reference value.
The multiple linear regression from anthropometric measurements gave the following equation to evaluate the total-body skeletal muscle mass (SMM) in children and adolescents: SMM (kg) = Ht x [(0.0064 x CAG) + (0.0032 x CTG) + (0.0015 x CCG)(2)] + (2.56 x sex) + (0.136 x age). The prediction of SMM from a 24-h urine collection was obtained with the following equation: SMM (kg) = (10.62 x Crn) + 6.63. The correlation coefficient (r(2)) was 0.966 and 0.710 for the anthropometric and creatinine methods, respectively (P < 0.001).
Besides DEXA technique, the determination of total-body skeletal muscle mass in children and adolescents can be highly validated with satisfactory confidence by simple anthropometric measurements or 24-h urine creatinine excretion.
Longitudinal changes in height, weight and physical performance were studied in 33 Flemish male youth soccer players from the Ghent Youth Soccer Project. The players' ages at the start of the study ranged from 10.4 to 13.7 years, with a mean age of 12.2 +/- 0.7 years. Longitudinal changes were studied over a 5 year period. Peak height velocity and peak weight velocity were determined using non-smoothed polynomials. The estimations of peak height velocity, peak weight velocity and age at peak height velocity were 9.7 +/- 1.5 cm x year-1, 8.4 +/- 3.0 kg x year-1 and 13.8 +/- 0.8 years, respectively. Peak weight velocity occurred, on average, at the same age as peak height velocity. Balance, speed of limb movement, trunk strength, upper-body muscular endurance, explosive strength, running speed and agility, cardiorespiratory endurance and anaerobic capacity showed peak development at peak height velocity. A plateau in the velocity curves was observed after peak height velocity for upper-body muscular endurance, explosive strength and running speed. Flexibility exhibited peak development during the tear after peak height velocity. Trainers and coaches should be aware of the individual characteristics of the adolescent growth spurt and the training load should also be individualized at this time.
To investigate whether observed gender differences in objectively measured physical activity (PA) in children (8-13 yr) are confounded by physical maturity differences.
Four hundred and one children (194 boys and 207 girls) volunteered for this study. An Actigraph accelerometer was used to obtain seven consecutive days of minute-by-minute PA data for each participant. Minutes of moderate to vigorous PA per day (MVPA), continuous minutes of MVPA per day (CMVPA), and minutes of vigorous PA per day (VPA) were derived from the accelerometer data. Age at peak height velocity (APHV), an indicator of somatic maturity, was predicted in all individuals. Gender differences in the PA variables were analyzed using a two-way (gender x age) ANOVA.
Levels of PA decreased with increasing chronological age in both genders (P < 0.05). When aligned on chronological age, boys had a higher MVPA at 10-13 yr, a higher CMVPA at 9-12 yr, and a higher VPA at 9-13 yr (P < 0.05). When aligned on biological age, PA declined with increasing maturity (P < 0.05); however, gender differences between biological age groups disappeared.
The observed age-related decline in adolescent boys and girls PA is antithetical to public health goals; as such, it is an important area of research. To fully understand gender disparities in PA, consideration must be given to the confounding effects of physical maturity.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the physiological and anthropometric characteristics of junior volleyball players competing at the elite, semi-elite, and novice levels and to establish performance standards for these athletes. One hundred and fifty-three junior national (N = 14 males; N = 20 females), state (N = 16 males; N = 42 females), and novice (N = 27 males; N = 34 females) volleyball players participated in this study. Subjects underwent measurements of standard anthropometry (body mass, height, standing reach height, and sum of 7 skinfolds), lower-body muscular power (vertical jump and spike jump), upper-body muscular power (overhead medicine ball throw), speed (5-m and 10-m sprint), agility (T-test), and estimated maximal aerobic power (multistage fitness test) during the competitive phase of the season, after obtaining a degree of match fitness. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were detected among junior national, state, and novice volleyball players for height, standing reach height, skinfold thickness, lower-body muscular power, agility, and estimated maximal aerobic power, with the physiological and anthropometric characteristics of players typically improving with increases in playing level. Male players were taller, heavier, leaner, and had greater standing reach height, speed, agility, muscular power, and estimated maximal aerobic power than female players. These findings provide normative data and performance standards for junior volleyball players competing at the elite, semi-elite, and novice levels. Given the improvements in lower-body muscular power, agility, and estimated maximal aerobic power with increased playing level, and given the importance of these qualities to competitive performances, conditioning coaches should train these qualities to improve the playing performances of junior volleyball players.
The aim of the study was to compare vertical jumping performances in boys and girls during growth. The maximum heights attained in a countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) were measured using an Ergojump Bosco System. Average power output (PO) was recorded, and percentage of fast-twitch (%FT) muscle fiber distribution was estimated during the rebound jump. Differences in the maximum CMJ and SJ (CMJ-SJ) heights were calculated. Regressions between PO and age, lean body mass (LBM), and leg muscle volume (LMV), respectively, were computed for 240 boys and 239 girls (aged 11-16 years). Height, LMV, and body mass values were larger in boys than girls aged 14 years. Both groups had a similar body mass index independently of age. The CMJ, SJ, PO, and %FT were larger in boys than in girls between 12 and 16 years of age. Strong correlations were found between PO and age in the population as a whole, and between PO and LBM, PO and LMV in each group. The CMJ-SJ decreased with increasing age in both groups without significant differences. Conclusion Jumping performance increases during growth, with gender differences manifesting from 14 years onwards due to the much greater increase in leg length and LMV in boys than in girls.
This paper reviews some of the statistical methods available for controlling for body size differences in the interpretation of developmental changes in exercise performance. For cross-sectional data analysis simple per body mass ratio scaling continues to be widely used, but is frequently ineffective as the computed ratio remains correlated with body mass. Linear regression techniques may distinguish group differences more appropriately but, as illustrated, only allometric (log-linear regression) scaling appropriately removes body size differences while accommodating the heteroscedasticity common in exercise performance data. The analysis and interpretation of longitudinal data within an allometric framework is complex. More established methods such as ontogenetic allometry allow insights into individual size-function relationships but are unable to describe adequately population effects or changes in the magnitude of the response. The recently developed multilevel regression modeling technique represents a flexible and sensitive solution to such problems allowing both individual and group responses to be modeled concurrently.
A mixed cross-sectional longitudinal design was used to study the effect of growth and physical maturation on peak aerobic and anaerobic mechanical power. Subjects were divided into three groups based on Tanner staging: 16 prepubertal (PP, Stage 1), 15 midpubertal (MP, Stages 2, 3, 4), and 5 late pubertal (LP, Stage 5). Aerobic and anaerobic power were observed every 6 months for IS months. Peak mechanical aerobic power and peak oxygen consumption were determined using a progressive cycle ergometer test. Anaerobic power indices were derived from the Wingate Anaerobic Test. There was no difference in peak mechanical aerobic power (in W · kg−1) among the maturation groups, nor with chronological age. There was a significant difference in peak and mean anaerobic power (in W · kg−1) among maturation groups, but the increase with chronological age was not statistically significant. There was a significant correlation between aerobic and anaerobic power (in Watt) during each session among the PP and MP boys but...
The physical characteristics of 1,000-m and 500-m sprint kayakers have been previously reported (e.g. Fry and Morton, 1991, Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 23, 1297-1301). Despite the introduction of the 200-m event to the World Championship programme in 1994, no data have been published on the physical characteristics of top performers in this event. Hence the principal aim of this investigation was to determine the anthropometric and physiological profile of the Greek international 200-m kayakers. A secondary aim was to determine the relationships between these characteristics and competitive performance in 200-m kayak racing. Thirteen male kayakers with a mean age of 25 ± 5 years (Mean±SD), who were all current members of the Greek National team and had competed in international 200 m racing, participated in this study. Subjects were required to visit the laboratory for familiarisation and assessment of anthropometric and physiological measures. Anthropometric assessment undertaken was the measurement of body mass, stature, the sum of four skinfolds and estimated percent body fat. Girth measurements and bone breadths were taken to allow the calculation of somatotype using the Heath-Carter procedure. Pulmonary function was determined by means of a spirometry system (Oxycon Alpha, Mijnhardt b.v., The Netherlands). Characteristics of isometric strength and isokinetic power during a simulated kayak stroke, were assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex II, Lumex Inc., New York). A maximal incremental exercise test was performed on an air-braked kayak ergometer (K1 ERGO, Australian Sports Commission) to determine VO2peak and the submaximal VO2-power regression, which was used to calculate the accumulated oxygen deficit during a 2-min ergometry trial. In addition, subjects performed a 30-s modified Wingate Anaerobic test on the kayak ergometer. Pearson product moment correlations were employed to determine the relationship of anthropometric and physiological parameters with 200-m race performance, recorded at a national competition held at the time of testing. The mean 200-m race time for the subjects was 39.9 ± 0.8 sec (Mean±SD). The anthropometric assessment identified a body mass of 84.5 ± 4.9 kg, a stature of 1.829 ± 0.056 m, a sum of skinfolds of 31.6 ± 9.5 mm, an estimated body fat of 14.1 ± 2.9 %, and a somatotype of 2.6 ± 0.8, 4.9 ± 0.9 and 2.1 ± 0.7 (for endomorphy, mesomorphy and ectomorphy, respectively). Of these, the sum of skinfolds, estimated body fat and the rating of endomorphy were inversely related to 200-m race time (r = -0.76, P < 0.01; r = -0.72, P < 0.01, and r = -0.66, P < 0.05, respectively). The only parameter of pulmonary function that was correlated with 200-m time (r = 0.72, P < 0.01) was FEV1 (5.3 ± 0.6 L). Neither peak isometric strength (450.8 ± 77.3 N•m-1) nor peak isokinetic power (721.2 ± 104.4 W) was related to race time. The VO2peak of the subjects (4.3 ± 0.4 l•min-1) was not correlated with 200-m time, though when expressed relative to body mass (52.6 ± 4.9 ml•kg-1•min-1) a relationship with time was found (r = 0.54, P < 0.05). The accumulated oxygen deficit (51.8 ± 9.6 ml O2 Eq•min-1), the work done in the modified Wingate test (15.29 ± 1.63 kJ) and the peak power in the modified Wingate test (615.1 ± 81.5 W) demonstrated no significant relationships with 200-m kayaking performance. The results show that within a homogeneous group of top-level 200-m kayakers, the best performers exhibited a relatively high level of adiposity and a relatively low aerobic power when normalised for body mass. These findings compare to previous literature (e.g. Fry and Morton, 1991) that has shown low levels of body fat and superior aerobic capabilities to be related to successful 1,000-m and 500-m sprint kayaking performance. Therefore this study identifies the anthropometric and physiological profile of the 200-m kayaker, and illustrates the disparities with those of athletes specialising in the longer sprint kayaking events.
D. BISHOP, D. BONETTI, and B. DAWSON. The influence of pacing strategy on V̇O2 and supramaximal kayak performance. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 34, No. 6, pp. 1041–1047, 2002. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of manipulating pacing strategy on V̇O2 and kayak ergometer performance in well-trained paddlers. Methods: Eight well-trained kayak paddlers (500-m time = 115-125 s) first performed a graded exercise test for determination of V̇O2max and lactate (La−) parameters. On subsequent days and in a random, counterbalanced order, subjects performed a 2-min, kayak ergometer test using either an all-out start or even pacing strategy. Results: There was a significantly greater peak power (747.6 ± 152.0 vs 558.3 ± 110.1 W) and average power (348.5 ± 47.6 vs 335.5 ± 44.8 W) using the all-out start strategy, when compared with the even-paced strategy. There was however, no significant difference between the two pacing strategies for peak V̇O2, accumulated oxygen deficit (AOD), peak [La−], or posttest pH. Using the all-out start, total V̇O2 was significantly greater (7.3 ± 0.8 vs 6.9 ± 0.8 L). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that 2-min kayak ergometer performance is significantly greater following an all-out start strategy when compared with an even-paced strategy. The improved performance appears to be attributable to faster V̇O2 kinetics, without a significant change in the total AOD (although the AOD distribution was altered).
Tests have been completed on 10 men and 2 women, all aspirant members of the Canadian national white-water team. Objective scores account for some 75% of the variation in ability noted by the team coach, and can provide (i) a useful counterweight to errors of judgement by the coach, and (ii) indications for an individualized training programme. The successful white-water paddler is characterized by many years of experience, a substantial standing height and lean body mass, good general muscle development with particular emphasis on the leg muscles, a good but not outstanding aerobic power, an above-average vital capacity, and tolerance of a large oxygen debt; control of body fat does not seem particularly vital to success. The maximum heart rate and the parameters of the recovery curve seem as in the normal population; however, a single Astrand nomogram prediction does not provide adequate information on the aerobic power of the individual athlete.
To determine the relative importance of anthropometric and physiological attributes for performance in the 1000-m, 500-m, and 200-m flatwater kayaking events.
Eighteen competitive male kayakers completed performance trials over the 3 distances and a battery of anthropometric and physiological tests.
Performance times (mean +/- SD) for 1000 m, 500 m, and 200 m were 262.56 +/- 36.44 s, 122.10 +/- 5.74 s, and 41.59 +/- 2.12 s, respectively. Performance in all 3 events was correlated with a number of physiological parameters; in addition, 500-m and 200-m performance was correlated with upper body dimensions. 1000-m time was predicted by power output at lactate turnpoint expressed as a percentage of maximal aerobic power, work done in a 30-s ergometry test and work done in a 2-min ergometry test (adjusted R2 = 0.71, SEE = 5.72 s); 500-m time was predicted by work done and the fatigue index in a 30-s ergometry test, work done in a 2-min ergometry test, peak isometric and isokinetic function (adjusted R2 = 0.79, SEE = 2.49 s); 200-m time was predicted by chest circumference, humeral breadth, peak power, work done, and the fatigue index in a 30-s ergometry test (adjusted R2 = 0.71, SEE = 0.71 s).
A number of physiological variables are correlated with performance in all events. 1000-m, 500-m, and 200-m times were predicted with a standard error of only 2.2%, 2.0%, and 1.7%, respectively.