ARTICOLI ORIGINALI   

Gazzetta Medica Italiana Archivio per le Scienze Mediche 2014 May;173(5):265-72

Copyright © 2014 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

lingua: Inglese

Effect of maturation on sprint and jump performances in adolescent boys

Yoshimoto T., Takai Y., Fukunaga Y., Fujita E., Kanehisa H., Yamamoto M.

National Institute of Fitness and Sports, Kanoya, Kagoshima, Japan

AIM: The purpose of this study was to examine whether maturity is an independent determinant for sprint and jump performances in a single year age group of adolescents.
METHODS: We examined this issue in adolescent boys (n = 107) aged from 13.0 to 13.9 yrs. The maturity status was assessed using a self-assessment of stage of pubic hair based on the criteria of Tanner. Body composition and maximal voluntary knee extension torque were determined using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer and a static myometer, respectively. Sprint velocity and vertical jump height were measured by a non-motorized treadmill and matswitch system, respectively.
RESULTS: Maturity-related difference was found in sprint velocity and body size, but not in jump height. The difference in sprint velocity was not significant when chronological age and body size were controlled. Multiple regression analyses showed that lean body mass and knee extension torque relative to body mass were selected as positive predictors for sprint velocity and jump height, and percent body fat as a negative predictor for jump height.
CONCLUSION: The current results indicate that, at least for 13 yrs boys, maturity is not one predictor for sprint and jump performances, being independent of chronological age, body size and muscle strength.