An Examination Of Upper Body Power And Fat-free Mass In Division-I Cheerleaders

Abstract

The sport of cheerleading requires extended bouts of great physical strength and coordination, particularly at the collegiate level. Upper body power (UBP) is vital to cheerleading performance, as many stunts require athletes to lift and propel themselves or teammates into the air. Additionally, large proportions of fat-free mass (FFM) may provide the ability for cheerleaders to execute advanced movements during competition. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between UBP and FFM in Division-I cheerleaders. METHODS: Male (n=12) and female (n=33) collegiate cheerleaders were assessed for height (cm), weight (kg), UBP, and FFM. UBP was determined using the medicine ball put test in which participants sat on an exercise bench at a 45-degree recline and were instructed to throw a medicine ball from the chest for maximum distance. Females and males used 15-lb and 20-lb medicine balls, respectively and completed two trials with a one-minute rest in between. FFM was assessed on the same visit to the laboratory via air displacement plethysmography. Spearman’s rho correlations were used to determine all associations with FFM and UBP for the entire group and genders. RESULTS: Results indicated a significant, strong, positive correlation (rs = 0.79, p < 0.01) between UBP and FFM for the entire group. Separating the participants by gender produced a significantly, strong, positive correlation for the female population (rs = 0.71, p < 0.01); while the males demonstrated a non-significant, moderate correlation (rs = 0.45, p < 0.45). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that FFM and UBP are positively correlated in collegiate cheerleaders, although this relationship was exhibited particularly among females. The demand of UBP associated with the sport may require greater amounts of FFM in order to properly execute advanced movements during competition.