Differences In Anthropometric Characteristics Research Articles

Exploring anthropometric characteristics, weight status, and posture among preschool children in Serbia

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the anthropometric characteristics, weight status, and posture of 6- and 7-year-old preschool-aged children. The sample of 922 children was divided by gender and age (monthly quartiles). Anthropometric characteristics were assessed using a battery of three variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), and body mass index (BMI). BMI was categorized based on the World Health Organization (WHO) cutoff values, determining the degree of children’s weight status. Postural status was assessed by evaluating the following postural parameters: foot status, scoliosis, and dropped shoulders. Independent samples t-test showed no differences in anthropometric characteristics between boys and girls. According to ANOVA test, all three older groups (III, IV, and V) had significantly higher values in body height than the first two younger groups. In terms of body mass, IV and V groups had higher values than group I, and V had higher values than group II. Normal-weight children constituted 73.5%, while 14.4% were overweight and 8.8% were obese. Chi-square test revealed no difference in the degree of weight status by gender. Regarding postural status, 24.1% of children had scoliosis, 75.4% had abnormal foot status, and 59.8% had dropped shoulders. Chi-square test showed no difference between gender and postural deviations, except for foot status where boys significantly had more deviations than girls. This study contributed to diagnosing the anthropometric characteristics and posture of children and can be considered significant as the first study in this part of Serbia, serving as a starting point for future practical and research steps.

Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Its Influence on Anthropometric and Fitness Variables in High-Level Adolescent Athletes.

The objectives of the present research were to analyze adherence to the Mediterranean diet (AMD), to observe which variables most affect AMD, and to analyze whether AMD affects physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in high-level adolescent athletes. A total of 96 adolescent athletes in the under-16, under-18, and under-20 categories selected by the Athletics Federation of the Region of Murcia, of whom 47 were male (age = 18.31 ± 2.31 years old) and 49 female (age = 17.27 ± 1.44 years old), participated in this study. They completed the KIDMED questionnaire to discover their AMD, as well as an anthropometric and physical condition assessment. Results: The findings show that 61.45% had an excellent degree of AMD, 31.25% a moderate one, and 7.30% a poor one. The parameters that most conditioned AMD were the consumption of fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, fish, breakfast cereals, and dairy products (p = 0.011-0.000). AMD did not show significant differences in anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness (p = 0.057-0.996). Conclusions: The majority of high-level adolescent athletes have a moderate or excellent AMD. The degree of AMD seems to have no influence on physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in this population.

Somatotype and Body Composition of Indian Male and Female Swimmers, and their Relationship to Countermovement Jump Performance

Introduction: The aim of this study was:1) to ascertain the anthropometric characteristics of Indian swimmers and 2) to investigate the potential association between these characteristics and countermovement jump metrics. Method: Forty-two national level Indian swimmers (18 females and 24 males) who regularly compete in national and/or international competitions, took part in the study. Anthropometric measurements were performed for body mass, stature, 8 skinfold sites, 3 girths, and 2 breadths. Somatotypes, body fat %, fat mass and lean body mass for all athletes were also calculated. A CMJ test was performed to measure vertical jump height, peak power output, and relative peak power output. Results: The Pearson correlation analysis of body composition variables and CMJ measures revealed a very large negative association between body fat percent and vertical jump height (R = - 0.726; p = 0.000) and between body fat percent and relative peak power (R = -0.757; p = 0.000); a large negative association between body fat percent and peak power (R = - 0.577; p = 0.000) and between fat mass and relative peak power (R = -0.560, p = 0.000); a moderately negative association between fat mass and vertical jump height (R = -0.490, p = 0.001); a very large positive association between lean body mass and peak power (R = 0.862, p = 0.000); and a large positive association between lean body mass and vertical jump height (R = 0.599, p = 0.000) and a large positive association between lean body mass and relative peak power (R = 0.530, p = 0.000); and a moderately positive association between BMI and peak power (R = 0.413, p = 0.007). Conclusion: There are significant differences in anthropometric characteristics when analyzing the anthropometric characteristics of Indian swimmers which could be attributed to the specific demands of each event. Anthropometric characteristics and body composition differences influence swim performance and vary according to gender, age and maturation status. A robust and significant positive correlation exists between lean body mass and vertical jump height suggesting that an enhancement of an individual's lean mass seems to have a positive impact on lower body power production in swimmers. Individualised training plans that focus on lower limb strength will have a potential positive effect on swim performance.

Anthropometric Characteristics and Weight Status of Early Adolescents (Aged 12-14) in Montenegro; Urban-Rural and Regional Differences.

The aim of this study was to determine urban-rural and regional differences in anthropometric characteristics among adolescents aged 12-14, as well as to present the prevalence of weight status. A total of 534 adolescents aged 12-14 from primary schools across Montenegro participated in this cross-sectional study (283 boys, aged 13.52 ± 0.42, body height 169.43 ± 8.89, body weight 60.54 ± 13.47; 251 girls, aged 13.51 ± 0.40, body height 165.54 ± 6.67, body weight 55.28 ± 9.27). The sample was divided by geographic region in Montenegro into northern, central, and coastal regions, and according to settlement type into urban and rural inhabitants. Anthropometric characteristics were assessed using a battery of seven variables: arm span (AS); body height (BH); body weight (BW); waist circumference (WC); hip circumference (HC); body mass index (BMI); and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). BMI was categorized based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) cut-offs. The results indicate that girls from urban areas exhibited significantly greater body height and lower BMI values compared to their rural counterparts. Similarly, boys from urban areas also demonstrated lower BMI values compared to their rural peers. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in other anthropometric characteristics between these two groups of adolescents. Based on analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc analysis, it was found that girls from central areas had significantly greater body height compared to those from northern and coastal areas. Likewise, boys from northern areas showed higher body mass and BMI values compared to those from central areas. Additionally, both boys and girls from central areas had higher values compared to those from coastal areas. Nevertheless, no significant differences were detected in other anthropometric characteristics among adolescents from these regions. This study identified significant differences in anthropometric parameters among participants based on urban-rural status and within regional divisions. However, further research encompassing a larger sub-sample and a broader array of anthropometric variables is needed to draw a more comprehensive conclusion.

Comparative Analysis of Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition among Elite Female Futsal Players in Montenegro, North Macedonia and Croatia

Anthropometric characteristics and body composition play an important role in achievements in most sports, however, there are still no specific recommendations on anthropometry-body composition for women in futsal. The research aimed to determine differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition between elite female futsal players, members of the best futsal clubs in Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Croatia. The sample of respondents consisted of 30 elite female futsal players. The first sub-sample consisted of players from Montenegro (n=11, 19.18±2.44 yrs), the second sub-sample consisted of players from North Macedonia (n=10, 18.10±3.03 yrs), and the last sub-sample was consisted by players from Croatia (n=9, 20.33±5.17 yrs). Anthropometric characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). Based on the ANOVA and post-hoc tests, findings showed that have differences between the groups in 4 anthropometric parameters such body height, body mass, abdominal skinfold, and muscle mass percentages. Female futsal players from Montenegro and Croatia have significantly higher results in parameters such as body height, body mass, and muscle mass percentages. While futsal players from Montenegro have significantly higher abdominal skinfold values than Croatia. The results suggest that there is some difference in anthropometry- body composition between groups of female futsal players, but for more complete conclusions an analysis should be performed on a larger sample of high-level female futsal players. However, despite that, this research made a significant contribution because it was the first to identify differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition among elite female futsal players from different countries in this part of the world. In this way, it has opened the doors for further research into the anthropometry of female futsal players in this region.

Effect of Lifestyle Promotion in the PRECEDE-PROCEED model among pre-diabetic adults based on PERSIAN cohort study: a randomized controlled trial study.

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by impaired glucose metabolism. This study aimed to design and evaluate the effect of a lifestyle promotion program based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model among pre-diabetic individuals. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of a lifestyle promotion program using the PRECEDE-PROCEED model among pre-diabetic individuals in Hoveizeh city in 2019. The study collected information on the disease status and risk factors associated with non-communicable conditions from the website of Hoveizeh Cohort Study Center. The primary outcome of the study was the percentage of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with a three-month follow-up. A total of 240 individuals participated in the study. There was no significant difference in anthropometric characteristics between the intervention and control groups (P < 0.05). Initially, there was no significant difference in the mean HbA1c between the intervention and control groups (P = 0.97). However, after three months of intervention, a statistically significant difference was observed (P > 0.001). The results indicated an increase in the mean quality of life in the intervention group, but no significant difference was found between the two groups or before and after the intervention within each group (P < 0.05). The findings suggest that the PRECEDE-PROCEED model provides a suitable framework for training pre-diabetic individuals and patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to promote self-care behaviors. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01273-7.

Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics of Youth in Football Between Elite and Non-Elite Players

Study purpose. This paper is about the differences in anthropometric characteristics between elite and non-elite youth football players in the Republic of Kosovo. Therefore, our current study aims to compare the differences in anthropometric characteristics between elite and non-elite youth players. The test was conducted with 132 young football players aged 14±0.5 years. Materials and methods. The sample was divided into two groups, namely 66 young players playing in the elite league and 66 young players playing in the non-elite league. The sample of variables consisted of 10 anthropometric measurements. The results of the measurements were analyzed using statistical procedures characterized by descriptive parameters and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results. The results show that the elite league players have higher values in height and body mass compared to the non-elite league players. It should be noted that the length of the left leg is also higher in the elite league players, while the waist circumference is higher in the non-elite league players. As for knee diameter, the values are identical in both groups. Subcutaneous adipose tissue is more pronounced in the non-elite group than in the elite league players. According to the analysis of variance (ANOVA), significant differences were presented only in the three variables such as the subcutaneous adipose tissue of the back, triceps and suprailiac between the elite and non-elite groups at the level (p&lt;0.05), while no differences were presented in other variables. That is, between the elite and non-elite groups. Conclusions. In summary, the elite league players had better values in the anthropometric characteristics compared to the non-elite league players.

Anthropometric characteristic, somatotype, and body composition of Indian Female Combat Sport Athletes: A comparison between Boxers, Judokas, and Wrestlers

Introduction: The aim of this study was:1) to ascertain the anthropometric characteristics of Indian female combat athletes and 2) to determine and compare the sport-specific (boxing, judo, and wrestling) somatotype of Indian female combat athletes. Method: Ninety-nine national level female combat sports athletes (40 Boxers, 25 Judokas, and 34 Wrestlers who regularly compete in national and/or international competitions, took part in the study. Anthropometric measurements were performed for body mass, stature, 7 skinfold sites, 3 girths, and 2 breadths. Somatotypes for all subjects were also calculated. All measurements were statistically analyzed using pairwise comparison analysis and differences between groups were also compared. Results: Significant differences between boxing and judo for the mean value of BMI. Pairwise comparison analysis revealed significant differences in the mesomorphy component between boxing and judo (p = 0.001; 95% CI: -1.83 – -0.40) and between boxing and wrestling (p = 0.001; 95% CI: -1.69 – -0.39); as well as in the ectomorphy component between boxing and judo (p = 0.009; 95% CI: 0.16 – 1.35) and between boxing and wrestling (p = 0.007; 95% CI: 0.17 – 1.25). Conclusion: There are significant differences in anthropometric characteristics when analyzing the somatotype of Indian female combat athletes which could be attributed to the specific demands of each sport. Sport-specific training programmes that consider the anthropometric characteristics and somatotype of female athletes participating in Boxing, Judo and Wrestling should be considered by practitioners and coaches.

Gender and Age Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics of Taiwanese Older Adults Aged 65 Years and Older.

A previous study provided reference data on the age and gender distribution of anthropometric parameters in Taiwanese adults. However, there are very few large-scale analyses of anthropometric data of older adults in Taiwan. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to describe gender- and age-specific distributions of anthropometric measurements and anthropometry assessments of Taiwanese older adults. This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 22,389 adults aged 65 years or older (8017 males and 14,372 females) who participated in Taiwan's National Physical Fitness Survey 2014-2015. All participants were recruited using stratified convenience sampling from 46 physical fitness test stations in 22 cities or counties in Taiwan. The anthropometric measurements and anthropometry assessments included in the present study were the assessments of height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The results showed statistically significant differences in weight, height, WC, and WHR across all age groups among both male and female individuals aged 65 years and older in Taiwan. However, there was no significant difference in BMI and HC between males and females in all age groups. Anthropometric status provides an initial assessment of the overall health of the population. This study uses a representative population of Taiwanese older adults over the age of 65 for analysis and provides detailed information on anthropometric data distribution.

Impact of residential status on sports activity, anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities of adolescents

The world’s leading health institutions warn that adolescents do not meet the minimum level of physical activity necessary for the proper physical development of young people, which is considered one of the main problems of public health. In addition to personal preference, environmental and cultural factors play an important role in the involvement of young people in sports. This study aimed to examine potential differences in involvement in sports, anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities, in adolescents of different residential statuses. The sample included 83 adolescents, of whom 45 (54.2%, 13.51±0.55 yrs) were from urban areas and 38 (45%, 13.45±0.50 yrs) were from rural areas in the Belgrade region. Surveying detected their involvement in sports, and anthropometric characteristics were assessed through body height (BH) body mass (BM), body mass index (BMI), and motor abilities through explosive strength of lower and upper extremities and agility. A Mann-Whitney U test has shown that place of residency impacts involvement in sports and motor abilities, while there was no impact on anthropometric characteristics. Cohen’s criteria (r) detected the level of impact. Adolescents from urban areas are more involved at sports and have better motor abilities. There is no difference in anthropometric characteristics. Considering the relatively small sample of respondents and variables assessed, the obtained results can hardly be generalized. However, this does not diminish the importance of the present study which examined the urban-rural state of sports activity, anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities of adolescents in Serbia, thus making an important contribution to this field.

Age and Gender Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics and Motor Performance of 3 through 6 Young Kids Aged (Pilot Study)

It is crucial to evaluate children's motor coordination and strength to identify possible motor deficits on the right or left side of the body. However, whether a distinction exists in children aged 3-6 must be clarified. The goal of the current research was to investigate the differences in motor skills between preschool boys and girls, dominant and non-dominant hands or legs, in children of preschool age. (2) Methods: The present study was conducted on a sample of children (boys, n = 52; girls, n = 52; age range, 3-6 years). Three motor tests evaluated on both sides of the body served as the sample of factors used to measure athletic performance. Leg tapping (15 s), hand tapping (15 s), and a maximal hand grip strength (HGS) test kg. (3) Results: The study's findings show no statistically significant variations in preschool boys' and girls' motor skills. Preschool girls had better results in the right leg tapping than preschool boys t (98) = 2.08; p ≤ 0.04. We found a significant difference between genders aged 3-4, 4-5, and 5-6 years. No correlation was found between the girls' three variables and age. A small but significant positive correlation was found between dominant hand tapping and age r2 (52) = 0.21; p ≤ 0.01, dominant leg tapping and age r2 (52) = 0.20; p ≤ 0.01 and dominant HGS and age r2 (52) = 0.17; p ≤ 0.01. No noticeable differences were identified when comparing the dominant side with the non-dominant side in each group. The results show that most children prefer to use their right hand and right leg as their dominant sides. (4) Conclusion: The authors of this study focus on the functional (frequency of movements) and dynamic (differences in muscle strength between body sides) elements of asymmetry. Future studies should examine the influence of morphology on performance with the dominant or non-dominant body side.

A comparative evaluation of anthropometric characteristics and respiratory functions' parameters among rugby and soccer players

Introduction: Evaluation of anthropometric characteristics and respiratory functions is imperative for investigating the health status of individuals and sportspersons. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anthropometric characteristics and respiratory function parameters of rugby and soccer players. Methods: Forty-four players (rugby, n=22; soccer, n=22) were selected for the present study. They were free of musculoskeletal and respiratory disorders. Their age was 21.49±1.41 years, height 173.62±6.26 cm, weight 71.40±14.44 kg, BMI 22.70±4.26 kg/m2, PBF 17.35±12.27%, Fat Mass 24.43±13.61 kg, and LBM 55.98±7.26 kg. Anthropometric characteristics and body composition were measured using a weighing scale cum stadiometer and a bioelectric impedance analyzer. Respiratory function was assessed using a handheld spirometer. Standard procedures were followed to measure the anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and respiratory function. Results: The results of the study demonstrated no significant differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition between rugby and soccer players. The respiratory function parameters were insignificant for vital capacity (VC) (MWU=213, p=0.496), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (MWU=216, p=-0.541), forced expiratory volume in the first second divided by vital capacity (FEV/VC) (MWU=205.5, p=0.390), and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) (MWU=224.5, p=0.681) among rugby and soccer players; only a significant difference was found in forced vital capacity (FVC) (MWU=142.5, p=0.019) in rugby and soccer players. Conclusion: Based on findings from the study, it can be concluded that rugby players have higher values for respiratory functions than soccer players. The findings of this study can inform future researchers, coaches, and team instructors regarding the preparation of rugby and soccer players for specific training and competitions.

ANTHROPOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS AND AGILITY OF WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL PLAYERS : DIFFERENCES AND RELATIONSHIP WITH FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION

The aim of this study was to determine: (1) differences in anthropometric characteristics and agility between different functional classes of wheelchair basketball players and (2) the relationship between anthropometric characteristics and agility with the functional classification of wheelchair basketball players. The sample of participants consisted of 40 wheelchair basketball players, aged 33.9 ± 11.2 years. Anthropometric characteristics (longitudinal and circular dimensions, as well as skinfold thickness) were assessed, and agility was measured using the modified T-test and Figure-of-Eight test. The results of the one-way analysis of variance showed significant differences with very large effects between players of different functional classes in body mass, sitting height, and sitting reach height, while significant differences with large effects were recorded in the agility assessment tests: the T-test and the Figure-of-Eight test. Also, the results of the correlation analysis indicate that there are significant moderate positive correlations of sitting height and reaching height with functional classification.

Anthropometric characteristics of young elite sailors based on performance level

Background/ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to analyse possible differences in anthropometric characteristics of elite sailors based on categories and performance level. MethodsA total of 42 young (aged 12–18 years) elite sailors (men = 31; women = 11) of the Monohull (n = 21) and Windsurfing (n = 21) categories composed the study sample. Testing was per-formed in one session the day before the start of an official and international competition. Body composition was measured using an octopolar and multi-frequency electrical bioimpedance analyser, and height was recorded using a telescopic measuring instrument. Cross-sectional study. The total sample was divided into two groups based on their performance level (ranking), 50th percentile (P1), and 100th percentile (P2). ResultsP1 presented a lower BMI, total body fat mass, and body fat mass in the trunk, arms, and legs (p < 0.05). Similarly, P1 reported a higher total body muscle mass and body muscle mass on the trunk, arms, and legs compared to the less level performance group (p < 0.05). In addition, P2 sailors were taller and heavier (p < 0.05). Regarding categories, the Windsurf sailors presented statistically significantly lower arm fat mass than the Monohull (p < 0.05). The Windsurf sailors showed differences between the two performance-level groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, comparing the high-level performance group in both categories, higher arm muscle mass on the Windsurfing sailors was detected (p < 0.05). ConclusionsThese findings could help to differentiate the anthropometric variables that determine sport performance in young elite sailors and could be used to differentiate the anthropometric variables in each category.

Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition of Athletes in Cyclic Endurance-Type Activities: A Case Study

Endurance-type disciplines (running, cycling, biathlon) define the cyclic structure of an athlete's movements, which, in addition to functional parameters, also includes an adequate morphological profile and body composition. Based on the detection, analysis and evaluation of these parameters, it is possible to define the body composition of the competitors as well as possible mutual differences even though it is endurance sports. The results are all the more relevant if the profile of top athletes with notable results is being evaluated. The current case study analyzes the morphological dimensions and body composition of competitors of three different disciplines (middle and long distances, cycling, biathlon) of top-level competitors, members of national teams. The study was conducted: Uroš Gutić (UG) - runner middle and long distances, member of AK "Sarajevo" and the BIH athletic national team; Milan Milivojević (MM) – cyclist, member of Cycling club "Borac" Čačak (Serbia), and the member Serbian national team; Stefan Lopatić (SL) – biathlete, member SK "Romanija" Pale, and BIH national team.

Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition of Athletes in Cyclic Endurance-Type Activities: A Case Study

Endurance-type disciplines (running, cycling, biathlon) define the cyclic structure of an athlete's movements, which, in addition to functional parameters, also includes an adequate morphological profile and body composition. Based on the detection, analysis and evaluation of these parameters, it is possible to define the body composition of the competitors as well as possible mutual differences even though it is endurance sports. The results are all the more relevant if the profile of top athletes with notable results is being evaluated. The current case study analyzes the morphological dimensions and body composition of competitors of three different disciplines (middle and long distances, cycling, biathlon) of top-level competitors, members of national teams. The study was conducted: Uroš Gutić (UG) - runner middle and long distances, member of AK "Sarajevo" and the BIH athletic national team; Milan Milivojević (MM) – cyclist, member of Cycling club "Borac" Čačak (Serbia), and the member Serbian national team; Stefan Lopatić (SL) – biathlete, member SK "Romanija" Pale, and BIH national team.

Impact of Early Nutrient Intake and First Year Growth on Neurodevelopment of Very Low Birth Weight Newborns.

Optimal nutrient intake ensuring better neurodevelopment for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants remains unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between early (first 28 days) nutritional intake, first year growth, and neurodevelopment. In total, 120 VLBW infants were included into the study. A group of 95 infants completed follow-up to 12 months of corrected gestational age (CGA). Nutrient intake was assessed, and weight, length, and head circumference (HC) were measured weekly until discharge and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of CGA. Neurodevelopment was assessed at 12 months of CGA. Two groups—extremely preterm (EP) and very/moderately preterm (VP)—were compared. Growth before discharge was slower in the EP group than the VP group. At 12 months, there was no difference in anthropometric characteristics or neurodevelopmental scores between the groups. Higher carbohydrate intake during the first 28 days was the single significant predictor for better cognitive scores only in the EP group (βs = 0.60, p = 0.017). Other nutrients and growth before discharge were not significant for cognitive and motor scores in either group in multivariable models, whereas post-discharge HC growth was associated with both cognitive and motor scores in the VP group. Monitoring intake of all nutrients and both pre-discharge and post-discharge growth is essential for gaining knowledge about individualized nutrition for optimal neurodevelopment.

Anthropometric Characteristics of Pakistan Rugby Union Players and Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics of Forwards and Backs

Rugby is a contact sport played in Pakistan and worldwide at domestic, national and international level. Rugby union forwards and backs bear differences in anthropometric characteristics which are important while the assortment of players in the team. Objective: To describe anthropometric characteristics of Pakistan rugby union players and differences in anthropometric characteristics of forwards and backs. Methods: It was an observational study / cross sectional survey. Study was compiled at RCRS after data collection from players. Convenient sampling technique was used and 52 players were enrolled. Standiometer, Digital weight scale, Skinfold caliper and retractable steel tape was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18.0. Results: Mean weight of forwards was 94.3 ± 12.1 kg while that of backs was 71.2 ± 12.0 kg. The mean of the sum of the eight skinfold measurements of forwards was 150.9 ± 24.9 mm, and that of backs was 93.5 ± 33.9 mm. Mean body fat percentage of forwards was 19.2 ± 2.9 %, while backs have 12.4 ± 4.5 %. Mean fat mass of forwards was 18.2 ± 4.4 kg, and of backs was 9.1 ± 4.94 kg. Conclusions: Rugby union forwards and backs have significant differences in anthropometric characteristics with respect to body weight, skinfold thickness, girth measurement, and body fat percentage, all higher among forwards. No difference was observed in age and stretch stature.

Dıfferences ın anthropometrıc characterıstıcs between athletes, sprınters and jumpers, an educatıonal-sports study

The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in anthropometric characteristics between sprinters and jumpers to aim education more accurately in these fields. The study included 24 men in athletics, they were divided into two groups: 14 sprinters (age 21.57 ± 1.16 years) and 10 jumpers (21.80 ± 1.03 years). The variables included 13 anthropometric measures. To determine the differences between groups of variables it was used Mann-Whitney U test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results of the Mann-Whitney U test showed statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in two variables for estimating subcutaneous adipose tissue, chest skinfold, and midaxillary skinfold. Other analyzed variables for assessing the longitudinal of the skeleton, and body mass and volume differences were not statistically significant (p ≥ 0.05). These findings may give coaches better knowledge, suggest following recent methods and be more careful in training programs with different athletics.

Association of Picky Eating with Weight and Height-The European Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ELSPAC-CZ).

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether preschool children identified as picky eaters showed differences in anthropometric characteristics (weight and height) from their non-picky peers at 15 years of age. Design: This study was performed among the cohort members of the EL- SPAC–CZ study, a longitudinal study of pregnancy and childhood. The analysis included 2068 children (997 girls and 1071 boys) followed between births and 15 years of age. Picky eaters were identified at 1.5, 3, and 5 years of age. Anthropometric characteristics were measured at 15 years of age (15 years). Results: Picky eaters (n = 346; 16.7%) had a lower weight and height than non-picky eaters (n = 1722; 83.3%) at 15 years. This difference in weight and height was maintained after controlling for sex of the child, birth weight, birth length, maternal education, family structure at 15 years, and maternal age at childbirth. The picky children were on average 2.3 kg lighter and 0.8 cm shorter than non- picky children at 15 years. Conclusions: Persistent picky eating in preschool children is related to lower weight and height at 15 years of age in ELSPAC–CZ study.