Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background. The anthropometric indicators are closely related to physical performance and are used to monitor athletes in various sports. Assessment of physical development characteristics is particularly important in strength sports. Objectives. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the anthropometric characteristics in kettlebell athletes with different skill levels using the index method. Materials and Methods. A total of 30 kettlebell athletes were divided into the following groups: Group 1 consisted of 16 kettlebell athletes (15.56 ± 0.27) years old, with (3.84 ± 0.42) years of training experience and skill levels ranging from novices to candidates for master of sports. Group 2 comprised 14 kettlebell athletes (24.50±2.25) years old, with (7.79±1.86) years of training experience and skill levels ranging from masters of sport to honored masters of sport. 16 anthropometric indicators (body length and weight, chest circumference at rest, shoulder width, arm and forearm length, biceps and forearm circumference, length of the second and fourth fingers of the right hand, and grip strength in static and dynamic modes) were determined. 10 physical development indices were calculated based on these measurements. The median, 1st (25%) and 3rd (75%) quartiles were determined to characterize the data. The nonparametric Rosenbaum criterion (Q) was used to assess the reliability of differences between groups. Results. Significant differences were confirmed between the groups. Experienced kettlebell athletes had higher values for the Erisman index (Q = 10), shoulder width index (Q = 11), Livy index (Q = 10), and body surface according to Isaksson (Q=10). According to the massiveness indices, an increase in this index was found in experienced athletes for the right shoulder (Q = 8), left shoulder (Q = 7), and right forearm (Q = 7). These kettlebell athletes were characterized by a significant increase in the static and dynamic grip index for the right (Q = 11) and left (Q = 9) hands. This index was >1. No significant differences were observed in the body mass index, left forearm mass index, strength index values, and 2D:4D index. A strength index value of more than 60% prevailed among the participants. The median 2D:4D index was 1.0 for all participants. Conclusions. The anthropometric characteristics of kettlebell athletes with different skill levels were compared using the index method. This method is an adequate and informative assessment tool. Specialized indices illustrate the specific influence of the sport on athletes’ condition. The Erisman and shoulder width indices indicate that experienced athletes have better development of the torso muscles. The increase in body surface reflects the growth of adaptive capabilities, while the massiveness indices and the static and dynamic grip indices demonstrate a higher level of upper limb and hand muscle development. Most participants had a high strength index. This confirms the importance of grip strength for successful kettlebell lifting. The 2D:4D index should also be considered when selecting athletes for kettlebell lifting. The simplicity, clarity, and informativeness of the indices allow them to be recommended for use as screening tests in monitoring the condition of kettlebell athletes.
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $200
OpenAlex ID: W4414580963