Anthropometric and Physical Fitness Component Profiles in Malaysian Adolescence Recreational Karateka

Abstract

Objective: Measuring the physical fitness components of athletes provides crucial information in designing an individual training program to enhance performance. However, a huge gap is identified, in the lack of baseline physical fitness profiles among Malaysian adolescence Karateka. Our objective is to describe the physiological profiles of Malaysian adolescence Karateka. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Klang Valley; at eight Karate training facilities in participants aged 13-19 years old. Demographic data, anthropometric and short physical performance batteries, 3-minute YMCA step test, Jamar handgrip dynamometer test 3-minutes and 1-minute sit-up test were collected and analysed using statistical package for social sciences version 26. Results: The mean age was 15.8±1.8 years. The mean body mass index was 21.5±4.5 kg.m2, the mean VO2 peak was 59.0±12.4 ml.kg.min, and the mean hand grip strength was 30.7±9.3 kg. Karateka in higher age groups (18-19 years) had a significantly higher weight (median=64.4, p-value=0.003), higher skeletal muscle mass (median=27.6, p-value=0.006), higher hand grip strength (median=37, p-value=0.000), and higher 1 min sit up test (median=32, p-value=0.071). Male Karateka had a higher skeletal muscle mass (median=25.9 kg, p-value=0.000), higher hand grip strength (median 33.1 kg, p-value=0.000), higher 1 minute sit-up test (median=32, p-value=0.001) and higher VO2 peak (median 67.2 ml.kg.min, p-value=0.000). Conclusion: This serves as baseline anthropometric and physical fitness profiles among Malaysian adolescence Karateka.