Digit Ratio (2D:4D) and Body Composition in Athletes

Abstract

In the course of previous studies it has been established that finger length ratio (2D:4D) can be used as a marker of prenatal androgens exposition. Its low level is connected with a high prenatal and postnatal testosterone level. 2D:4D ratio proves helpful during the evaluation of athletes' predisposition to practice certain disciplines. The study included a group of athletes - 72 men and 60 women - aged between 18 and 36. Physiotherapy and dietetics students (140) from the Torun University Collegium Medicum and tourism and recreation students (63) from the Bydgoszcz University were the control group. Body height and the length of 2 nd and 4 th finger of right hand were measured in each subject, as well as body composition with the method of segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (SBIA). The study concerned the dependence between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and a series of selected features and body composition indicators in athletes of both sexes, as well as the comparison of 2D:4D ratio in athletes and less physically active subjects. In studied female athletes a significant correlation was found between finger length ratio 2D:4D and total and active body mass, and BMI. 2D:4D ratio was not significantly lower when compared to the women who were not athletes. Hormone dependent 2D:4D ratio was finitely predictive in male athletes.