Somatotype and Body Composition of Young Top-level Table Tennis Players

Introduction. The aim of this study was to analyze the anthropometric profile of young top-level table tennis players belonging to Spanish table Tennis National Team. A total of 63 players (38 males and 25 females), aged between 10 and 13 years were evaluated with the sex as a factor. Methods. Different body measurements were recorded following the guidelines proposed by the ISAK: body mass, height, skinfolds (biceps, triceps, subscapular, suprailiac, supraspinale, abdominal, anterior thigh, and medial calf), girths (arm flexed and relaxed; arm flexed and tensed, thigh, and calf) and breadths (biepicondylar of the humerus, bistyloid, and biepicondylar of the femur). In addition to anthropometric analysis, body composition and somatotype of participants have been assessed. A t- test for independent samples was performed to examine statistical differences between sex groups and a Pearson's coefficient was applied to evaluate the correlation between variables. Results. A mesomorph - endomorph somatotype was registered for the entire group. Analysis, taking into account the sex factor, revealed a balanced mesomorph somatotype for males and a mesomorph - endomorph somatotype for females. Data corresponding to body composition contrasted by sex showed higher body fat percentage in females than in males. Conclusions. Within the tested age interval, range body fat content in female players is higher than in male players. Although these differences may be the consequence of a normal growth, it is advisable to integrate educational and nutritional strategies in order to maintain an adequate body fat content.