Multidimensional indicators of sporting potential of Brazilian trampoline gymnasts

Abstract

Scientific evidence on the profile of trampoline gymnastics athletes is scarce. Considering that the individual trampoline is an Olympic sport, it is important to investigate the characteristics of these athletes in Brazil. The aim of this study was to evaluate anthropometric, physical-motor, maturational, socio-environmental indicators and the sporting potential of Brazilian trampoline gymnasts, investigating differences between age categories. Participated 147 athletes who competed in the State and Brazilian Championship of Trampoline Gymnastics for Ages in 2017-2018. A multidimensional battery of tests was carried out, comparing the indicators collected between the categories Pre-Child (9 to 10 years), Infant (11 to 12 years), Infant-Juvenile (13 to 14 years), Juvenile (15 to 16 years) and Adult (17 years or older). The coaches (n = 20) assessed the sporting potential of their gymnasts, in relation to the expectation of success in the future. The results showed statistically significant differences in body size and composition, somatotype, handgrip strength, countermovement jump, flexibility and sporting potential among athletes of different age categories, in both sexes. In addition, 30% of gymnasts showed high sporting potential, according to the coaches' opinion. It is concluded that the multidimensional indicators related to the sporting potential of Brazilian trampoline gymnasts vary according to the age category. This study is a pioneer in characterizing the profile of the elite Brazilian trampoline gymnast, using a dynamic approach related to sports talent