Anthropometrics related to the performance of a sample of male swimmers

Percept Mot Skills. 2014 Jun;118(3):940-50. doi: 10.2466/19.50.PMS.118k27w8. Epub 2014 May 14.

Abstract

The main purpose of the present investigation of 21 elite male swimmers was to assess whether the Ape Index (the ratio between the individual's arm span and height) and/or the second-to-fourth digit length ratio (2D:4D), i.e., the ratio between the length of the second and the fourth fingers of the right hand, are associated with the performance of high-level swimmers, when mood and/or executive function are covaried. The results showed no statistically significant correlation between the Ape Index and 2D:4D ratio, performance, executive function, or mood. In contrast, statistically significant correlations were found between 2D:4D ratio and performance, executive function, and mood. Regressions indicated that 2D:4D ratio and not Ape Index is related to the performances of a sample of male swimmers.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Affect / physiology*
  • Anthropometry
  • Athletic Performance / physiology*
  • Body Weights and Measures*
  • Executive Function / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Swimming / physiology
  • Young Adult