Background. Kho-Kho, a traditional Indian sport, has separate roles for runners and chasers, each requiring unique physical attributes. Research on the specific physical and anthropometric characteristics of players in this position is limited, highlighting the need for this study to optimize performance at the national level. Objectives. The study aimed to investigate the differences in physical and anthropometric parameters between national level male Kho-Kho players categorized as Runners and Chasers. Materials and methods. A total of 200 male Kho-Kho players, aged 17 to 21 years, were selected for the study. The participants were divided into two groups: 100 Runners (average age 19.21 ± 1.15 years) and 100 Chasers (average age 19.29 ± 1.19 years). The physical attributes measured included body weight, height, BMI, arm length, sitting height, chest girth, thigh girth, calf girth, and skinfold thickness at the biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac regions. The body fat percentage was calculated using the skinfold measurement technique. Data collection tools included a weighing scale for body weight, a flexible metal tape for circumferences and arm length, and a stadiometer for height and sitting height. The mean and standard deviation were computed for each parameter, and an independent samples t-test was used to compare the two groups. Results. The findings revealed significant differences in weight, BMI, chest, thigh, and calf circumferences, with Chasers having higher values. In contrast, Runners exhibited greater arm length and sitting height. Additionally, there was no considerable difference in height between Runners and Chasers. Conclusions. The study concluded that Chasers tend to have higher body weight, BMI, and larger circumferences in the chest, thigh, and calf regions, which may be advantageous for their role. Conversely, Runners benefit from longer arm lengths and greater sitting height, which may aid in evading Chasers. These findings suggest that role-specific physical attributes should be considered in training and player selection to enhance performance in Kho-Kho.
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