Sexual dimorphism in physical education students of equal body height

Anthropol Anz. 2018 Feb 1;75(1):1-8. doi: 10.1127/anthranz/2018/0754. Epub 2018 Jan 12.

Abstract

The aim: This paper's aim is to assess the level of development and size of particular body parts and dimorphic differences with regard to body height. Methods: The research was carried out over the period of 1995-2010 on a 1,969-strong cohort of first-year students of physical education, aged 19-21. The following somatic features were measured: body height and weight, breadth of distal femoral epiphysis, breadth of distal brachial epiphysis, four skinfolds, arm circumference, and calf circumference. Using the results, the shares of endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy were calculated as well as the mean values of particular features and their supplemental values and regression equations. Results: With regard to height, the women students exhibit higher share of endomorphy than do the men students who, in turn, are characterised by a higher share of mesomorphy, the differences being statistically significant. The women also exhibit a higher share of ectomorphy, with differences statistically significant. The regression equation shows that the share of endomorphy decreases with height in the case of both sexes. Conclusions: The men students' body build is dominated by mesomorphy and endomorphy, while the women students' - by endomorphy. Sexual dimorphism is best seen in the mesomorphic build.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anthropology, Physical
  • Anthropometry
  • Body Height / physiology*
  • Female
  • Femur / anatomy & histology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physical Education and Training*
  • Physical Fitness / physiology*
  • Poland / epidemiology
  • Sex Characteristics*
  • Students / statistics & numerical data
  • Universities
  • Young Adult