Morphofunctional Indicators of 17– 19 Years Old Kayakers and Canoeists

Abstract

Research Relevance. In terms of sports of higher achievements, the early detection of the most talented and promising athletes is of particular importance since record attainments are demonstrated by those who possess the most optimal indicators typical for this sport. The Research Aimed to study the peculiarities of morphofunctional indicators of 17–19 years old kayakers and canoeists. Research Organization. The study involved kayakers and canoeists aged 17–19 of both sexes and different sports qualifications. A total of 243 rowers of males and females were surveyed. Research Methods. The complex examination included anthropometric measurements of total and longitudinal body size, diameters, girths, and partial body size (Popescu tests) and bodyweight components analysis. The measurement of longitudinal body size was conducted by Martin’s anthropometer, according to the generally accepted methods. Research Methods. The carried out morphofunctional examination of 17–19 years old rowers of both sexes and different specializations revealed positive dynamics in the results growth of morphofunctional parameters in all surveyed groups. However, among males, it slows down to the age of 18 in both canoeists and kayakers. By the age of 19, there are no statistically significant differences in males’ morphofunctional indicators. Statistically significant differences (p <0,05) were found among girls under 19 in body mass, arm span, and wrist dynamometry. Conclusions. As informative evaluation criterion in the selection of athletes in kayaking and canoeing is appropriate to use modernized Popescu tests that allow determining the main parameters of a person. They include body, torso, and arm length, arm span, and also for kayakers (length, sitting on the floor, arms up) and for canoeists (length, kneeling, arms up).