Mesomorphy Components Research Articles

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.

Reliability of BMI as an index for fattiness and obesity in active population in comparison to Endomorphy component as an index

Aim: The aim of the present study was to find out whether BMI is a reliable index for fattiness and obesity compare to endomorphy component as index. Methods: 439 males and 475 females from different countries across the world were measured over an extended period of years to 2020 for . Stretched stature, Body weight, Skinfold Thicknesses (Biceps, Triceps, Supraspinale and Calf), Girths (Arm Flexed and Tensed and Calf) and Bi-epicondylar breadth ( Humerus and Femur). Results: Very low correlation (r = 0.18) was observed between BMI and fat % whereas high correlation ( r = 0.61, p< .05) was observed between BMI and Fat Free Mass ( FFM). correlation coefficient ( r) between BMI and Mesomorphy component was 0.79 ( p<.05). Correlation coefficient ( r) between Endomorphy and fat % was 0.86(p<.05). Conclusion: Thus from the above study, it can be concluded that, for individuals, BMI is more associated with muscularity than it is with fatness.

Relationship between Somatotype and Physical Fitness: Study on Badminton Athletes of PB Djarum Kudus

Badminton athletes should have good physical abilities supported by the suitability of body type (somatotype) as it affects their biomechanics in badminton and performance. The purpose of this study was to explore the correlation between Heath Carter somatotype component factors that affect physical fitness. This study was a cross-sectional research design was used with 43 athletes in PB Djarum Kudus who were selected purposively to be the respondents. The data on Heath Carter somatotype was obtained from anthropometric measurements to generate somatotype scores, namely endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy. Cardiorespiratory endurance data were obtained using Balke test, power using vertical jump, and agility using court agility. The somatotype component types of all athletes are central (4.2-4.1-3). Male athletes are of central type (3.5-4-3.5) and females are of mesomorph-endomorph type (5-4-2). Both endomorphy and ectomorphy components showed significant correlation with cardiorespiratory endurance except mesomorphy component. Endomorphy component showed significant correlation with power except for mesomorphy and ectomorphy components. The ectomorphy component with a slender body shape with long arms and legs, low body fat percentage and strong muscle in the arms make it easier for badminton athletes to move in all positions combined.

Somatotype of Santal Tribal Women of West Bengal in India

Sixty-four Santal tribal women from Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal, India, were studied for their somatotype. The studied women were with an average age of 32.5 ± 11.6 years with a wide age range of 16–70. Average height was 150.2 (±5.2) cm. Heath–Carter method (1967) was followed for somatotyping. Average somatotype of the studied Santal women was 3.9 (±1.5) – 4.1 (1.1) – 2.9 ± (1.7). A total of 16–20 year age group had an average somatotype of 3.7 (±1.0) – 3.3 (±0.7) – 3.4 (±1.5), whereas that of 21–30 had an average somatotype of 3.4 (±1.2) – 3.7 (±1.0) – 3.9 (±1.5). A total of 31–40 year age group were more mesomorphic with an average somatotype of 4.4 (±1.6) – 4.4 (±1.2) – 2.1 (±1.7). Mesomorphy component increased as the Santal women grew up. The women from age group 41 to 50 year had an average somatotype of 4.0 (±1.6) – 4.6 (±1.1) – 1.9 (±1.3), whereas that of older women of 51–70 year age group were more mesomorphic with an average value of 5.0 (±1.9) – 5.1 (±0.7) – 1.7 (±0.7). Thus, muscularity of the Santal women increased as age increased. This was due to their changed lifestyle from young age to older age where older had to do more physical work than the young adults. Thus, well-built muscular body type of Santal women was an adaptation for hard physical work for survival.

Selection and promotion processes are not associated by the relative age effect in an elite Spanish soccer academy.

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the relative age effect (RAE) on the selection and promotion processes in an elite soccer academy. One hundred and eleven elite youth players who belonged to an elite soccer club from the Spanish “La Liga” participated in this study. Players were classified into three age-categories: under 14 years (U14), under 16 years (U16) and under 18 years (U18); and they were also classified in quartiles based on their date of birth (i.e., January-March, Q1; April-June, Q2; July-September, Q3; October-December, Q4). In addition, two further classification criteria were established based on the selection (i.e., selected and non-selected players) and promotion (i.e., promoted and non-promoted players) processes. The main results showed that in U14 and U16 age-categories, players born early in the year were over-represented compared to players born late in the year, although birth-distribution was not associated with the likelihood of a player to be selected or promoted. In addition, less fat in sum skinfolds, less percentage of fat, higher percentage of muscle and lower endomorphy and mesomorphy components were showed in U14 selected players, in comparison with non-selected players. Likewise, better sprint performance was found in U16 selected players versus non-selected ones. However, no significant differences on anthropometry, body composition, somatotype and physical performance were found between promoted and non-promoted players. Therefore, our results suggest there is need for coaches to reorient their talent identification programs in order to make sure that players selected to continue playing in the club have the potential to promote to the excellence in soccer.

The association between Body Physique and Physical Fitness: a cross-sectional study among a tribal community of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, India

Body physique and physical fitness are the key determinants of a healthy life. The type of work one performs has immense impact on the physique and fitness of an individual regardless of even socio-economic status. This study aims to understand the association of physical fitness with body physique among a tribal community of India. Data were collected on 200 individuals, both male and female in the age group of 18-40 years using random sampling technique. The males are mesomorph ectomorph (1.6 - 4.0 - 3.5), whereas, females are central (2.8 – 3.6 – 3.5). The physical fitness level of the studied population is excellent. With an increase in physical fitness among Warli males and females, there is an increase in mesomorphy component of somatotype, while the inverse is true for endomorphy and ectomorphy components. From this, it can be inferred that to be physically fit, muscular development is the most important.

Multilevel modelling of somatotype components: the Portuguese sibling study on growth, fitness, lifestyle and health

Background: Somatotype is a complex trait influenced by different genetic and environmental factors as well as by other covariates whose effects are still unclear.Aims: To (1) estimate siblings’ resemblance in their general somatotype; (2) identify sib-pair (brother–brother (BB), sister–sister (SS), brother–sister (BS)) similarities in individual somatotype components; (3) examine the degree to which between and within variances differ among sib-ships; and (4) investigate the effects of physical activity (PA) and family socioeconomic status (SES) on these relationships.Subjects and methods: The sample comprises 1058 Portuguese siblings (538 females) aged 9–20 years. Somatotype was calculated using the Health-Carter method, while PA and SES information was obtained by questionnaire. Multi-level modelling was done in SuperMix software.Results: Older subjects showed the lowest values for endomorphy and mesomorphy, but the highest values for ectomorphy; and more physically active subjects showed the highest values for mesomorphy. In general, the familiality of somatotype was moderate (ρ = 0.35). Same-sex siblings had the strongest resemblance (endomorphy: ρSS > ρBB > ρBS; mesomorphy: ρBB = ρSS > ρBS; ectomorphy: ρBB > ρSS > ρBS). For the ectomorphy and mesomorphy components, BS pairs showed the highest between sib-ship variance, but the lowest within sib-ship variance; while for endomorphy BS showed the lowest between and within sib-ship variances.Conclusions: These results highlight the significant familial effects on somatotype and the complexity of the role of familial resemblance in explaining variance in somatotypes.

Development and Reliability of a Novel iPad-based Application to Rapidly Assess Body Image

PURPOSE: To improve upon our current assessment of a person’s body image/shape by embracing more modern digital technologies rather than relying on traditional hand-drawn line-based (figural) images or silhouettes. These traditional methods typically only consider an endomorphy-ectomorphy continuum with no mesomorphy component. METHODS: We have developed a novel iPad application that uses a wide array of >45 male and female somatotype photographs that allows more comprehensive estimates of body-image dissatisfaction than figural images/silhouettes. We piloted the iPad application with 20 adults who rated their ‘perceived’ and ‘desired’ body images from the somatotype photographs (>3 days between tests). RESULTS: Reliability correlation coefficients were determined for ‘perceived’ endomorphy r = 0.91 (68% identical), and ‘desired’ endomorphy r = 0.78 (85% identical); ‘perceived’ mesomorphy r = 0.81 (70% identical), and ‘desired’ mesomorphy r = 0.93 (65% identical); plus ‘perceived’ ectomorphy r = 0.88 (61% identical), and ‘desired’ ectomorphy r = 0.88 (70% identical). Overall, on re-test, 45% chose the identical ‘perceived’ somatotype and 50% the identical ‘desired’ somatotype. CONCLUSIONS: This novel iPad application introduces a revolutionary new and reliable method of assessing both perceived and desired body image. It also uniquely and simultaneously assesses body fat, muscle and leaness using realistic quasi-3D images. Developments of this rapid, portable and digital application may provide health care professionals with an enhanced tool for assessing body image and dealing with body image disorders. Funding: Hong Kong University’s Knowledge Exchange Fund and Seed Funding Programme #201411159144. J.E. Lindsay Carter Kinanthropometry Clinic and Archive New Zealand funding programme #KAPHK1.

A Comparative Morphometric Analysis of Trained Young Male and Female Swimmers and Table Tennis Players

The study was designed to evaluate and compare the somatotype characteristics of male junior Swimmers, female junior Swimmers, and Table Tennis players. Twenty-six Swimmers and twenty-nine Table Tennis players were evaluated for their anthropometric and somatotype characteristics. Endomorphy, Mesomorphy and Ectomorphy components were evaluated for the entire groups. Mesomorphy components of male and female Swimmers were higher than the Table Tennis players. Total fat content was significantly higher in both male and female Table Tennis players when compared to the Swimmers. The male and female Swimmers and Table Tennis players were more endomorphic in average. Moreover, desired sports specific body type were not found when evaluated individually. The mesomorphy components were found to be higher in male Swimmers (30%) compared to 0% in female Table Tennis players.

Somatotype Characteristics of School Boys Aged Six to Eleven Years from Nepal

Nine hundred and ninety seven school children of Nepal age ranged from 6 to 11 year were studied for their somatotype characteristics. Endomorphy-Mesomorphy-Ectomorphy components were calculated using Heath-Carter Somatotype method. Average Endomorphy components for 6,7,8,9,10, and 11 year old boys were 3.0 (±1.8), 3.3(±1.8), 3.1(±1.4), 2.7(±1.0), 3.0(±1.2) and 2.7(±0.7) respectively. Average mesomorphy components for 6,7,8,9,10,and 11 year old boys were 4.2(±0.6),4.2(±1.0),4.0(±1.1),3.8(±0.9),4.0(±0.8) and 3.7(±0.9) respectively. Average ectomorphy components for 6,7,8,9,10 and 11 year old boys were 2.3(±1.1), 2.3(±1.0), 2.5(±1.3), 2.8(±1.1), 2.9(±1.0) and 3.2(±1.3) respectively. Slightly higher adiposity was observed for the Nepali male children compared to their similar counterparts of other different countries. But muscularity and linearity characteristics of the Nepali boys were very similar to other countries. The body type gradually changed into balanced mesomorph at the age of 9 and 10 yr which again changed into ectomorphic mesomorph but very close to central at the age of 11 yr.The changes of body type from endomorphic mesomorph into balanced mesomorph and ultimately into ectomorphic mesomorph supported the trend of somatotype change with age.

Somatic and Body Composition Factors Underlying Aerobic Capacity

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of somatic and body composition variables on aerobic capacity among the male college students. Five hundred (250 trained and 250 untrained) young college levels male students (mean age 20.54 years) participated in this study. In order to evaluate the somatotype components (endomorphy, mesomorphy, ectomorphy) and body composition variables (body mass index, % body fat, lean body mass, % skeletal muscle mass, % skeletal mass and body surface area) researcher applied a testing procedure that included measurements of height (cm), body weight (kg), five muscle girths (upper arm, fore arm, chest, thigh and calf) in cm, four bone diameters (humerus, bistyloid, femur and bimalleolus) in cm, and eight skinfolds thickness (triceps, sub-scapular, suprailiac, pectoral, axilla, abdominal, thigh and calf) in mm. Estimation of aerobic capacity through V O2max. Queen College Step Test was administered. A negative correlation was found between the body fat percentage and V O2max. Also a negative correlation was found to V O2max.with body surface area and endomorphy of both trained and untrained groups. The lean body mass, % skeletal muscle mass and mesomorphy components of somatotype have the greatest positive correlations with V O2max.

Somatotype Characteristics of Female Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus / Характеристика Соматотипа Жен Щин, Больных Сахарным Диабетом Типа 2

The AIM of the present study was to determine the somatotype of females patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Two-hundreds and twelve female patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were measured. The patients were of Bulgarian ethnicity and were divided into two age groups: Group 1: 40-60 years of age and Group 2: 61-80 years of age. The control group comprised healthy females of Bulgarian ethnicity without any metabolic, neoplastic, or other disease divided into age matched groups. Measurements obtained directly were height, body weight, biepicondylar width of humerus, biepicondylar width of femur, arm circumference in relaxed state, arm circumference in contracted state, and calf circumference. Skin folds: subscapular, suprailiac, over triceps and calf. Parameters calculated: the components of the Heath-Carter anthrpometric somatotype. The mean somatotype of 40-60-year-old female diabetics was mesomorph endomorph, (meso 6.09; endo 6.59; ecto 1.57). The mean somatotype of 40-60-year-old female controls was mesomorphic endomorph (meso 5.65; endo 6.82; ecto 2.75). The mean somatotype of 61-80-year-old diabetic females was endomorphic mesomorph (endo-mesomorph), (meso 9.41; endo 5.39; ecto 1.55). The mean somatotype of 61-80-year-old female controls was mesomorph-endomorph (meso 6.70; endo 6.66; ecto 2.95). Between-age comparison of female diabetics: the endomorph component dominated in the group of 40-60-year-old patients, and the mesomorph component dominated in the group of 61-80-year-old patients. In both groups ectomorphy markedly lagged behind. The mean somatotype of diabetic females aged 40-60 years is mesomoph-endomorph; it differs from the mesomorphic mesomorph somatotype of the control subjects, Endomorphy and mesomorphy dominate clearly, and ectomorphy significantly lags behind. This was the reason we get a distorted somatoplot with a sharp shift to endomorphy and mesomorhpy. The mean somatotype of diabetic women aged 60-80 years was endomorphic mesomorphy with the mesomorphy component leading. It differed from the somatotype of the controls, where mesomorphy and endomorphy scored equally (mesomorph-endomorph). The somatotype of female diabetics suggests that they have a relatively massive skeleton with well-developed muscles and greater body weight relative to height. Unlike the results of studies in other countries presenting with markedly dominating endomorphy, in our study the Bulgarian diabetic females presented with dominating mesomorphy. This can be regarded as a peculiarity of the Bulgarian diabetic patients. The somatotype of the Bulgarian diabetic females is more favorable on the risk, course and prognosis of the disease.

Technical diversification, body composition and somatotype of both heavy and light Polish ju-jitsukas of high level

Ju-jitsu is a combat sport that combines techniques of both karate and judo. Tournaments are organized in six weight categories. Identification and classification of somatic build in top contestants practicing ju-jitsu is important for establishment of a model of champion for this discipline of professional sport. There is also no evaluation of the relationships between the sports level and technical and tactical preparation of the contestants. The purpose of this study is to determine body composition, somatotype and technical diversification of both heavyweight and lightweight Polish Ju-jitsu fighters at super-elite and elite level, and consequences for coaching practice and procedural selection and individual training. The contestants comprised persons at both international (super-elite group, n = 12) and national level (elite group, n = 18). Individual fighting techniques were classified into nine groups, according to actions allowed during fighting: (a) in vertical position: hits with leg and hand, and arm, leg and hip throws and with the fall of the attacking opponent, (b) in horizontal position: grips, strangles, and joint locks. The variables dependent on weight category factor and level of sport achievements included age, height, weight, height-weight ratio (HWR) body mass index (BMI) and body composition (fat free mass index [FFMI], fat mass index [FMI], percent fat in body mass [%PF]), somatotype components endomorphy, mesomorphy, ectomorphy and the amount of techniques used in Ju-jitsu fight. The lightweight contestants revealed lower values of BMI than those of heavyweight category contestants. The same results were observed for FFMI. However, there are higher values of FMI and %PF in heavyweight category than in the lighter categories. In the range of mesomorphy component, supremacy of heavyweight contestants over lightweight contestants was observed. In the case of ectomorphy, it was the opposite. The number of techniques practiced was significantly higher in super-elite group than in elite group. Body composition and somatotype which differentiate the players into weight categories were observed among men practicing ju-jitsu. It is necessary to strive for presentation of somatic profiles of players against the background of the people from the same country not practicing any sports. The players of higher sports level (super-elite group) practice more diversified attacks which favors domination over the opponent (elite group). Body composition and somatotype can affect selection of attack techniques preferred in fight and determine the performance level. Le ju-jitsu est un sport de combat combinant les techniques de karaté et de judo. Les tournois sont organisés en six catégories de poids. L’identification et la classification du profil somatique des meilleurs combattants en ju-jitsu est important afin d’établir un modèle de champion au sein de cette discipline sportive professionnelle. De plus, il n’existe aucune évaluation de la relation entre le niveau sportif et la préparation technique ainsi que tactique des combattants. L’objectif de la présente étude est de déterminer la composition corporelle, les somatotypes et les variations techniques des ju-jitsukas polonais lourds et légers de haut niveau et les conséquences pratiques pour l’entraînement et la procédure de sélection et de l’individualisation de l’entraînement. Les combattants légers présentaient des valeurs de l’IMC significativement plus basses que les combattants lourds. Les mêmes résultats ont été observés pour l’indice de masse maigre (IMNG). Les valeurs de l’indice de masse grasse (IMG) ainsi que le pourcentage de masse grasse (% MG) sont plus élevés chez les combattants lourds que chez les combattants légers. On note également la supériorité des combattants lourds dans les valeurs des composants de la mésomorphie contrairement aux composants de l’ectomorphie. Le nombre de techniques employées était significativement plus élevé dans le groupe super-élite que dans le groupe élite. La composition corporelle et les somatotypes, qui différencient les combattants dans des catégories de poids, a été étudié chez les hommes pratiquants le ju-jitsu. Il est nécessaire de comparer le profil somatique des compétiteurs avec un modèle caractérisant les sujets non entraînés du même pays. Les combattants de niveau international (super-élite) utilisent des techniques d’attaque plus diversifiées, ce qui leurs donnent des avantages sur le groupe de niveau national (élite). La composition corporelle et le somatotype peuvent affecter la sélection des techniques d’attaque préférées et déterminer le niveau de performance des combattants.

Somatotype of the individuals with lower extremity amputation and its association with cardiovascular risk

Anthropometric somatotyping is one of the methods to describe the shape of the human body, which shows some associations with an individual's health and disease condition, especially with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Individuals with lower extremity amputation (LEA) are known to be more vulnerable to the cardiovascular risk. The objectives of the present study are to report the somatotype of the individuals having lower extremity amputation, to study the possible variation in somatotype between two groups of amputated individuals, and to study the association between cardiovascular disease risk factor and somatotype components among individuals with locomotor disability. 102 adult male individuals with unilateral lower-extremity amputation residing in Calcutta and adjoining areas were investigated. The anthropometric data for somatotyping and data on cardiovascular risk traits (such as body mass index, blood pressure measurements, blood lipids) have been collected. The somatotyping technique of Carter & Heath (1990) has been followed. The result shows high mean values of endomorphy and mesomorphy components and a low mean value of the ectomorphy component among the amputated individuals having cardiovascular risks. The results of both discriminant analysis and logistic regression analysis show a significant relationship between somatotype components and CVD risk among the individuals with LEA. The findings of the present study support the findings of similar studies conducted on the normal population. Diagnosis of CVD risk condition through somatotyping can be utilized in prevention/treatment management for the individuals with LEA.

Somatotypic Variations: An Analysis of Some Traditional Occupations

Somatotype variations among adult men of Punjab belonging to four different Occupational Groups, viz., Tailors, Farmers, Carpenters and Blacksmiths have been investigated. A cross-sectional sample of 800 subjects (200 of each group) rangin g in age from 30-40 years, was measured from April, 2002 to January, 2004 from different areas of Punjab. The Heath-Carter Anthropometric Somatotype (1967) is 4.5-3.1-2.8 for Tailors, 4.0-3.4-2.8 for Carpenters and 4.5-3.3-2.9 for Blacksmiths thus pointing towards meso-endomorphic dominance of physique. Farmers represent central type of body physique with somatotype as 2.9-3.2-3.6. Musculo-skeletal development is more prominent in Carpenters whereas Tailors and Blacksmiths reflect relatively more amount of non essential fat. The Farmers physique is more diverse as reflected by the higher value of SDM which is 4.87±2. 81. Inter-Group differences for endomorphy component are found to be relatively more than those for ectomorphy and mesomorphy component of somatotype.

THE ACE I/D POLYMORPHISM AND BODY DIMENSIONS IN STRENGTH ATHLETES VERSUS CONTROLS

Recently about 10 studies reported on the association of the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Insertion/Deletion (I/D) polymorphism with several characteristics of human performance. The underlying specific body composition in athletes could in part explain this (lack of) association. This study therefore investigated the ACE I/D polymorphism in 50 male national and international level Body Builders and weight lifters (BB) with 58 control subjects (sedentary or moderately physical active) (CO). BB had a significantly higher body weight, BMI, limb circumferences, and mesomorphy component, smaller extremity skinfolds and on average twice as large muscle+bone arm area compared to CO. The allele frequency in the total group was 0.42 for the I and 0.57 for the D allele, and observed genotype frequencies were in Hardy-Weinburg equilibrium (Chi2: 0.1, P = 0.75). Chi2 tests showed no evidence for association of the ACE I/D polymorphism with athlete or control status (Chi2, 2df: 0.94, P = 0.62 for genotype association, Chi2, 1df: 0.83, P = 0.36 for test of dominance of the I allele). Association between genotype and body dimensions was further studied using analysis of covariance with age and weight as covariates. Association of the ACE I/D genotype was only suggestive for indicators of subcutaneous and overall adipose tissue. Carriers of the I/I genotype had significantly smaller suprailiacal skinfolds, lower percentage fat and absolute fat mass, a higher fat free mass and a lower score on endomorphy compared to I/D and D/D genotypes (F-values ranged 2.97–2.30, P values 0.06–0.10). This study indicates no significant role of the ACE I/D polymorphism in explaining differences in muscularity and body composition between Body Building athletes and controls. It therefore does not add to the evidence of the ACE gene as associated with human performance. The underlying mechanism might be more related to a healthier cardiovascular system than to muscle mass or a strength component.

Teste de sentar-levantar: influência do excesso de peso corporal em adultos

As ações de sentar e levantar do solo integram o repertório motor de crianças e adultos e demandam força e potência muscular, flexibilidade de membros inferiores, equilíbrio e coordenação motora e são provavelmente influenciadas pelas dimensões corporais. Araújo (1999) propôs um procedimento simples, denominado de teste de sentar-levantar (TSL), para avaliar a destreza nessas ações. Neste estudo verificou-se a influência do excesso de peso corporal sobre o desempenho no TSL. Todos os 461 (288 homens/173 mulheres) adultos submetidos à avaliação na Clinimex, entre setembro de 1998 e junho de 2000, que realizaram o TSL foram retrospectivamente analisados. No TSL, os resultados variam de 0 a 5, separadamente para o sentar e para o levantar, perdendo-se um ponto para cada apoio utilizado (ex.: mão ou joelho) e meio ponto quando há desequilíbrio perceptível. A relação peso/altura foi avaliada por três métodos distintos: índice de massa corporal (IMC)-peso (kg)/altura² (m) -, recíproco do índice ponderal (RIP) -altura (cm)/peso1/3 (kg) e ectomorfia. Existe uma relação inversa entre o desempenho no TSL e o excesso de peso em relação à altura nos três métodos nos dois sexos (p < 0,01). Trabalhando com pontos de corte semelhantes para excesso de peso corporal nos dois sexos, observou-se que as mulheres com IMC > 25kg/m² ou ectomorfia < 1,45 ou RIP < 41cm/kg1/3 apresentaram mais dificuldades para sentar e levantar do que aquelas que se situam no outro lado das escalas (p < 0,05), o que não foi tão claramente observado nos homens. Isso pode ser devido às diferenças nos componentes de endomorfia e de mesomorfia nos dois sexos, permitindo que nos homens o peso proporcionalmente maior em relação à altura seja devido a uma maior massa muscular, enquanto nas mulheres isso ocorre, na maioria das vezes, devido ao aumento da quantidade de gordura corporal. Conclui-se que o excesso de peso corporal dificulta as ações de sentar e levantar em adultos, especialmente nas mulheres, o que se deve provavelmente a diferenças de composição corporal que não são evidenciadas pelos métodos de análise da relação peso/altura. Em adendo, obteve-se uma validação indireta dos pontos de corte de normalidade propostos para o RIP e para a ectomorfia em relação ao IMC, já que os resultados do TSL foram similares.

Physique and thermoregulation in prepubertal males during exercise in a warm, humid environment.

The hyperthermic response to exercise in a warm (30 degrees C), humid (80% relative humidity) environment was obtained for 23 prepubertal males. After the initial increase of core temperatures (tympanic and rectal) to elevated set points, further hyperthermia was minimal and was unrelated to any physique variable except for the case of endomorphy, which was weakly correlated with hyperthermia at the rectal site. This result for boys is attributed to the combination of small body size (relative to adults) and absence of pronounced, age-dependent muscular development as evidenced by low rating and small variation of the mesomorphy component of somatotype. Both of these factors were associated with a high surface area to weight ratio compared to adults, which facilitated heat loss. It is concluded that prepubertal males thermoregulate efficiently during moderate exercise in a warm, humid environment. Other than cases of obesity, variation in physique is not an important consideration for assessing the risk of heat strain.

Effect of mesomorphy on hyperthermia during exercise in a warm, humid environment.

The hyperthermic response to exercise in a warm (30 degrees C), humid (80% relative humidity) environment was obtained for 27 men who exhibited a wide range of body physique in terms of the mesomorphy component of somatotype. Increase in tympanic temperature (Yty) was significantly dependent on mesomorphy rating (X) according to the regression equation Yty = -0.390 + 0.088X. Increase in rectal temperature (Yre) was also significantly dependent on mesomorphy rating according to the equation Yre = -0.100 + 0.066X. The hyperthermic response was significantly correlated with other measures of physique, including ectomorphy, surface area/weight ratio, and body weight, but was not correlated with fatness or fitness. The results support the generalization that during exercise in a warm, humid environment individual differences in heat strain can be highly dependent on physique, especially if fitness and fatness are similar. In this context, mesomorphy appears to provide the optimum description of physique variation. Individuals with a mesomorphy rating greater than 7 warrant designation as being at high risk for heat intolerance during exercise in environments that significantly impair the rate of body heat loss.

The Rees-Eysenck body index and Sheldon's somatotype system.

In a recent paper, Parnell (1957) has criticized the Rees-Eysenck Body Index (Rees and Eysenck, 1945) on a number of grounds. He also showed that high values on the index corresponded to high values of Sheldon's ectomorphy component, while low values on the index corresponded to low values of the ectomorphy component, and high values of the endomorphy and more particularly the mesomorphy components. In this paper a brief attempt will be made to answer Parnell's criticisms and indicate why the Rees-Eysenck Body Index appears to be preferable to the Sheldon system.