Ratio of second to fourth digit as a predictor of performance in elite Indian volley ball players

Abstract

Background: Digit ratio (2D:4D) is considered as a marker of prenatal androgen exposure. There are evidences showing association between sporting ability and 2D:4D ratio. Aims & Objective: To determine the ratio of second to fourth digit in elite Indian volley ball players and compare them with controls. Materials and Methods: Both right and left hands of 16 male volley ball players attending training camp at the Bangalore regional centre of Sports Authority of India were scanned. Lengths of second and fourth digits were measured and their ratio calculated. The values were compared with Age & BMI matched subjects (25 males) who did not participate in any sports who formed the control group. Results: A highly significant difference was found in 2D:4D ratios of both the hands with volley ball players having a lower ratio compared to their controls. There was no statistically significant difference in 2D:4D (Δ r -l) between volley ball players and controls. Conclusion: Lower second to fourth digit ratios was found in volley ball players in comparison with the controls.