Association of anthropometric, physiologycal and physical traits to success of elite male mountain climbers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the anthropometric, physiological and physical traits of elite mountain climbers and relationship of these traits to success in mountain climbing. Thirty-eight elite male Iranian mountain climbers (height of 178.68 ± 5.77 cm, body mass index of 23.4 ± 2.78 kg/m2 and age of 31.26 ± 6.93 years) were assessed for some anthropometric, physiological and physical variables. So that, height, weight, and also length and circumference of limbs were measured. Percent body fat was determined by 3 sites measurements of skin-folds thickness. Aerobic power was assessed via a 12-minute run, anaerobic power was determined using anaerobic step test, Vertical and horizontal jump performance were evaluated with Sargent jump and standing long jump tests respectively, 40 yard dash was used to assess speed, and muscular endurance of torso and upper body were evaluated using sit-ups and push-ups tests. The sum of scores related to sport achievements was considered as the criterion evaluating success of mountain climbers. Anthropometric traits (only age and percent body fat) showed a poor positive relationship (p<0.05) with success. Whilst there were relatively strong relationship between physiological and physical traits including aerobic power (p<0.01), anaerobic power (p<0.01), vertical jump (p<0.05), lower body strength (p<0.01) and muscular endurance of torso (p<0.05) and upper body (p<0.01) with success of mountain climbers. Results indicate the importance of physiological and physical traits compared to anthropometric traits of mountain climbers and successful climbing depends largely on aforementioned characteristics.