Somatotyping and Some Physical Characteristics of Trained Male and Female Young Table Tennis Players

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship among somatotype characteristics and physical training of young male and female Indian table tennis players. A total of 29 players (14 males and 15 females), who represented district, state and national level competitions, were evaluated with the sex as a factor. Different body measurements were recorded following the guidelines proposed by the ISAK such as body mass, height, skinfold thicknesses at different sites (biceps, triceps, subscapular, supraspinale and medial calf), girths (arm relaxed, thigh, and calf) and breadths (biepicondylar humerus and femur). In addition to anthropometrical analysis, body composition and somatotype of the participants had been assessed. A t- test for independent samples was performed to examine the statistical differences between sex groups and a Pearson’s coefficient was applied to evaluate the correlation between variables. An endomorph-ectomorph somatotype characteristics was observed for the entire group. Analysis, taking into account the sex factor, revealed an endomorph-mesomorph somatotype for the males and an endomorph-ectomorph somatotype for the females. Data corresponding to body composition contrasted by sex showed higher body fat percentage for the female group than the males. Within the tested age interval range, body fat content in female players was higher than the male counterparts. Although these differences might be the consequence of a normal growth, it was advisable to integrate educational and nutritional strategies in order to maintain an optimum body fat content. Training procedure must be considered to improve the body type for the specific sports event.