A longitudinal analysis of morphological characteristics and body proportionality in young elite sprint paddlers.

Introduction: There are certain anthropometric attributes common to most high-level paddlers and among the determinants for optimal performance consecution in senior categories.Objective: The present investigation aimed to determine the evolution of morphological characteristics of elite paddlers during adolescence and to compare them with the values exhibited by Olympic competitors.Methods: In a longitudinal study, thirteen young elite paddlers (seven boys and six girls) completed a battery of anthropometric tests (heights, weight, girths, lengths, and sum of skinfolds) and on-water performance assessments (200 and 500 m) during three consecutive years.Results: Body mass and upper body sizes significantly change over the years (p < .05), especially in boys. Both male and female paddlers presented significant differences and large effect sizes in muscle mass and skin mass values (η2p > .64) whereas bone mass and fat mass remained stable from the 1st to the 3rd year. Proportionality analysis revealed girths and breadths differences in arm and chest variables as well as large effect sizes in biacromial breadth among all years (η2p > .62; p < .05), particularly in boys. Similarly, significant improvements in 200-m performance times were observed for both sexes.Conclusions: The findings of the current investigation might suggest a tendency towards a leaner and more robust morphological profile of elite paddlers in the transition from young to senior categories. In addition, the presence of superior relative body dimensions from young categories seems to be paramount in the evolution to later successful paddling.

Association of Trunk Rotational Velocity with Spine Mobility and Curvatures in Para Table Tennis Players.

This study investigates the relationship of trunk rotational velocity with mobility and curvature of the spine in wheelchair table tennis players. Eleven para table tennis players and 13 able-bodied athletes performed 5 seated trunk rotations to each side with 1 kg barbell placed on the shoulders. Trunk rotational velocity and respective angular displacement were significantly lower in para table tennis players compared to able-bodied athletes. Both groups showed similar values of thoracic kyphosis. However, para table tennis players exhibited lower lumbar inversion and pelvic retroversion compared to able-bodied athletes. Peak and mean velocity in the acceleration phase of trunk rotation correlated with angular displacement in both para table tennis players (r=0.912, p=0.001; r=0.819, p=0.013) and able-bodied athletes (r=0.790, p=0.026; r=0.673, p=0.032). These velocity values were also associated with lumbar curvature (r=-0.787, p=0.003; r=- 0.713, p=0.009) and pelvic tilt angle (r=0.694, p=0.014; r=0.746, p=0.007) in para table tennis players. Findings indicate that slower velocity of trunk rotations in para table tennis players might be due to their limited range of trunk rotational motion. Decreased posterior concavity could also contribute to these lower values. However, other biomechanical factors may have an impact on the association between these variables and have yet to be documented.

Differences in Anthropometry, Biological Age and Physical Fitness Between Young Elite Kayakers and Canoeists.

The aim of this study was to determine the anthropometric and physical characteristics of youth elite paddlers and to identify the differences between kayakers and canoeists. A total of 171 male paddlers (eighty-nine kayakers and eighty-two canoeists), aged 13.69 ± 0.57 years (mean ± SD) volunteered to participate in this study. The participants completed basic anthropometric assessments (body mass, stretch stature, sitting height, body mass index, maturity level, sum of 6 skinfolds and fat mass percentage) as well as a battery of physical fitness tests (overhead medicine ball throw, counter movement jump, sit-and-reach and 20 m multi-stage shuttle run tests). The anthropometric results revealed a significantly larger body size (stretch stature and sitting height) and body mass in the kayakers (p < 0.01) as well as a more mature biological status (p = 0.003). The physical fitness level exhibited by the kayakers was likewise significantly greater than that of the canoeists, both in the counter movement jump and estimated VO2max (p < 0.05), as well as in the overhead medicine ball throw and sit-and-reach test (p < 0.01). These findings confirm the more robust and mature profile of youth kayakers that might be associated with the superior fitness level observed and the specific requirements of this sport discipline.

Sprint kayaking and canoeing performance prediction based on the relationship between maturity status, anthropometry and physical fitness in young elite paddlers.

This study aimed to identify the maturity-related differences and its influence on the physical fitness, morphological and performance characteristics of young elite paddlers. In total, 89 kayakers and 82 canoeists, aged 13.69 ± 0.57 years (mean ± s), were allocated in three groups depending on their age relative to the age at peak height velocity (pre-APHV, circum-APHV and post-APHV) and discipline (kayak and canoe). Nine anthropometric variables, a battery of four physical fitness tests (overhead medicine ball throw, countermovement jump, sit-and-reach test and 20 m multistage shuttle run test) and three specific performance tests (1000, 500 and 200 m) were assessed. Both disciplines presented significant maturity-based differences in all anthropometric parameters (except for fat and muscle mass percentage), overhead medicine ball throw and all performance times (pre > circum > post; P < 0.05). Negative and significant correlations (P < 0.01) were detected between performance times, chronological age and anthropometry (body mass, height, sitting height and maturity status), overhead medicine ball throw and sit and reach for all distances. These findings confirm the importance of maturity status in sprint kayaking and canoeing since the more mature paddlers were also those who revealed largest body size, physical fitness level and best paddling performance. Additionally, the most important variables predicting performance times in kayaking and canoeing were maturity status and chronological age, respectively.

[CRITERION-RELATED VALIDITY OF SIT-AND-REACH TEST AS A MEASURE OF HAMSTRING EXTENSIBILITY IN OLDER WOMEN]. / VALIDEZ DEL TEST SIT-AND-REACH PARA VALORAR LA EXTENSIBILIDAD ISQUIOSURAL EN MUJERES MAYORES.

INTRODUCTION: lumbo-sacral posture and the sit-andreach score have been proposed as measures of hamstring extensibility. However, the validity is influenced by sample characteristics. OBJECTIVE: to determine the validity of lumbo-horizontal angle and score in the sit-and-reach test as measures of hamstring extensibility in older women. METHOD: a hundred and twenty older women performed the straight leg raise test with both leg, and the sit-and-reach test (SR) in a random order. For the sitand- reach test, the score and the lumbo-sacral posture in bending (lumbo-horizontal angle, L-Hfx) were measured. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: the mean values of straight leg raise in left and right leg were 81.70 ± 13.83º and 82.10 ± 14.36º, respectively. The mean value of EPR of both legs was 81.90 ± 12.70º. The mean values of SR score and L-Hfx were -1.54 ± 8.09 cm and 91.08º ± 9.32º, respectively. The correlation values between the mean straight leg raise test with respect to lumbo-sacral posture and SR score were moderate (L-Hfx: r = -0.72, p < 0.01; SR: r = 0.70, p < 0.01). Both variables independently explained about 50% of the variance (L-Hfx: R2 = 0.52, p < 0,001; SR: R2 = 0.49, p < 0,001). CONCLUSIONS: the validity of lumbo-sacral posture in bending as measure of hamstring muscle extensibility on older women is moderate, with similar values than SR score.

Introducción: la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro y la distancia alcanzada en el test sit-and-reach han sido propuestas para valorar la extensibilidad isquiosural, siendo su validez diferente en función de la población analizada. Objetivo: determinar la validez del ángulo lumbo-horizontal en flexión y la distancia alcanzada en el test sitand- reach como criterio de extensibilidad isquiosural en mujeres mayores. Metodología: un total de 120 mujeres mayores realizaron aleatoriamente los test de elevación de pierna recta (EPR) con ambas piernas y el test sit-and-reach (SR). En este último se valoró la distancia alcanzada y la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro (L-Hfx) al alcanzar la posición de máxima flexión del tronco. Resultados y discusión: los valores medios en el EPR fueron 81,70 ± 13,83º y 82,10 ± 14,36º en las piernas izquierda y derecha, respectivamente. La media del EPR de ambas piernas fue de 81,90 ± 12,70º. La distancia media en el SR fue de -1,54 ± 8,09 cm. En el L-Hfx, el valor medio fue de 91,08º ± 9,32º. La correlación entre el test EPR medio de ambas piernas respecto a la distancia alcanzada en el test DDP y el ángulo L-Hfx fueron moderados (L-Hfx: r = -0,72, p < 0,01; SR: r = 0,70, p < 0,01). Ambas variables, de forma independiente, explicaron alrededor del 50% de la varianza (L-Hfx: R2 = 0,52; p < 0,001; SR: R2 = 0,49; p < 0,001). Conclusiones: la validez de la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro en mujeres mayores es moderada, siendo similar a la obtenida por la distancia alcanzada en el test sit-and-reach.

Validez del test sit-and-reach para valorar la extensibilidad isquiosural en mujeres mayores / Criterion-related validity of sit-andreach test as a measure of hamstring extensibility in older women

Introducción: la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro y la distancia alcanzada en el test sit-and-reach han sido propuestas para valorar la extensibilidad isquiosural, siendo su validez diferente en función de la población analizada. Objetivo: determinar la validez del ángulo lumbo-horizontal en flexión y la distancia alcanzada en el test sitand-reach como criterio de extensibilidad isquiosural en mujeres mayores. Metodología: un total de 120 mujeres mayores realizaron aleatoriamente los test de elevación de pierna recta (EPR) con ambas piernas y el test sit-and-reach (SR). En este último se valoró la distancia alcanzada y la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro (L-Hfx) al alcanzar la posición de máxima flexión del tronco. Resultados y discusión: los valores medios en el EPR fueron 81,70 ± 13,83º y 82,10 ± 14,36º en las piernas izquierda y derecha, respectivamente. La media del EPR de ambas piernas fue de 81,90 ± 12,70º. La distancia media en el SR fue de -1,54 ± 8,09 cm. En el L-Hfx, el valor medio fue de 91,08º ± 9,32º. La correlación entre el test EPR medio de ambas piernas respecto a la distancia alcanzada en el test DDP y el ángulo L-Hfx fueron moderados (L-Hfx: r = -0,72, p < 0,01; SR: r = 0,70, p < 0,01). Ambas variables, de forma independiente, explicaron alrededor del 50% de la varianza (L-Hfx: R2 = 0,52; p < 0,001; SR: R2 = 0,49; p < 0,001). Conclusiones: la validez de la disposición del raquis lumbo-sacro en mujeres mayores es moderada, siendo similar a la obtenida por la distancia alcanzada en el test sit-and-reach (AU)

Introduction: lumbo-sacral posture and the sit-andreach score have been proposed as measures of hamstring extensibility. However, the validity is influenced by sample characteristics. Objective: to determine the validity of lumbo-horizontal angle and score in the sit-and-reach test as measures of hamstring extensibility in older women. Method: a hundred and twenty older women performed the straight leg raise test with both leg, and the sit-and-reach test (SR) in a random order. For the sitand-reach test, the score and the lumbo-sacral posture in bending (lumbo-horizontal angle, L-Hfx) were measured. Results and discussion: the mean values of straight leg raise in left and right leg were 81.70 ± 13.83º and 82.10 ± 14.36º, respectively. The mean value of EPR of both legs was 81.90 ± 12.70º. The mean values of SR score and L-Hfx were -1.54 ± 8.09 cm and 91.08º ± 9.32º, respectively. The correlation values between the mean straight leg raise test with respect to lumbo-sacral posture and SR score were moderate (L-Hfx: r = -0.72, p < 0.01; SR: r = 0.70, p < 0.01). Both variables independently explained about 50% of the variance (L-Hfx: R2 = 0.52, p < 0,001; SR: R2 = 0.49, p < 0,001). Conclusions: the validity of lumbo-sacral posture in bending as measure of hamstring muscle extensibility on older women is moderate, with similar values than SR score (AU)

Kinanthropometric comparison between young elite kayakers and canoeists.

The aims of this study were to describe and compare kinanthropometric characteristics of elite young kayakers and canoeists and to compare their proportionality with Olympic paddlers. One hundred and twenty young elite sprint paddlers (66 kayakers and 58 canoeists), aged 13- and 14-years-old, were assessed using a battery of 32 anthropometric dimensions. Somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and corrected girths were calculated. Comparison between kayakers and canoeists showed that kayakers had greater height, body weight, sitting height, arm span and upper body lengths, breadths and girths than canoeists. Higher proportional humerus breadth and arm girths were also found in kayakers. However, canoeists had higher Z-scores in femur breadth. Olympic paddlers had higher proportional dimensions in upper body girths, and biacromial breadth in both disciplines. Mean somatotypes of kayakers were best described as balanced mesomorphs, while canoeists were ecto-mesomorphs. Differences between kayak and canoe paddlers may be explained by the continual need for physical development in kayakers, in order to remain competitive, compared to the young canoeists' need to place much greater emphasis on the development of their technical ability. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint canoeing and kayaking.

Características morfológicas y perfil antropométrico en mujeres que practican pilates clásico y mat clásico / Morphological characteristics and anthropometric profile of women who practice reformer pilates and traditional mat pilates

El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir y comparar las características antropométricas, somatotipo y proporcionalidad en mujeres que practicaban mat clásico y Pilates clásico. Setenta y nueve mujeres, 39 que realizaban Pilates clásico (edad: 45,10±8,32 años; años de práctica: 1,84±0,73 años) y 40 de mat clásico (edad: 42,60±7,83 años; años de práctica: 1,65±0,96 años), fueron valoradas usando una batería de 41 medidas antropométricas. Se calculó el somatotipo, los valores Z utilizando la estrategia Phamton de proporcionalidad y la composición corporal siguiendo la estrategia de cinco componentes de Kerr. Ambos grupos de mujeres obtuvieron valores similares en la mayoría de las variables antropométricas, valores Z de proporcionalidad, porcentajes de composición corporal y en el somatotipo, clasificado como meso-endomórfico. En conclusión, la práctica de mat clásico o Pilates clásico en mujeres no genera diferencias en las variables antropométricas, la composición corporal y el somatotipo.

The aim of this study was to describe and compare the kinanthropometric characteristics, somatotype and proportionality between women who perform reformer Pilates and traditional mat Pilates. Seventy-nine women, 39 who practice reformer Pilates (age: 45.10±8.32 years; years of practice: 1.84±0.73 years) and 40 who do mat Pilates (age: 42.60±7.83 years; years of practice: 1.65±0.96 years), were assessed using a battery of 41 anthropometric dimensions. Somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and body composition with the strategy of five components of Kerr were calculated. Both groups showed similar values of anthropometric dimensions, phantom Z-scores, values of body composition and mean somatotypes. Somatotype was best described as meso-endomorph in both groups. In conclusion, both groups showed similar values in all anthropometric dimensions, proportional values, body composition and somatotype.

[Habit based consumptions in the mediterranean diet and the relationship with anthropometric parameters in young female kayakers]. / Adhesión a la dieta mediterránea y relación con los parámetrosantropométricos de mujeres jóvenes kayakistas

INTRODUCTION: Dietary habits and body composition are possibly two of the most modifiable aspects that influence athletic performance in competition and training, especially in individual sports. OBJECTIVE: To determine Mediterranean diet adherence in a group of elite women paddlers and the relationship between these variables with anthropometric parameters and somatotype of the athlete. METHODS: A 90 women cadets who belonged to the national elite canoeing underwent a complete anthropometry according to ISAK instructions; and they selfcompleted KIDMED test to know their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. After that, anthropometric characteristics were compared based on their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: One kayaker had a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 38 a medium adherence and 51 an excellent adherence. However, one in every three not eats nuts and one in every five makes sweets more than once a day or industrial pastries for breakfast. When it was dividing paddlers based on their Mediterranean diet adherence it was found that the two groups (low and medium adherence and excellent adherence) did not show differences in most of the anthropometric variables, composition body percentages, somatotype and body mass index. CONCLUSIONS: The paddlers show a medium or excellent Mediterranean diet adherence. There was not clear relationship between anthropometric parameters and the degree of Mediterranean diet adherence in these athletes. It is necessary to continue researching the interaction between these fields in order to indentify possible relationships with health and sport performance in elite kayakers.

Adhesión a la dieta mediterránea y relación con los parámetros antropométricos de mujeres jóvenes kayakistas / Habit based consumptions in the mediterranean diet and the relationship with anthropometric parameters in young female kayakers

Introducción: Los hábitos alimentarios y la composición corporal son posiblemente dos de los aspectos modificables que más pueden influir en el rendimiento deportivo, principalmente en los deportes individuales. Objetivo: Determinar la adhesión a la dieta mediterránea de un grupo de mujeres jóvenes kayakistas y la relación de este parámetro con sus variables antropométricas y su somatotipo. Metodología: A 90 mujeres jóvenes kayakistas se les realizó una valoración antropométrica completa siguiendo las indicaciones de la ISAK; además, cumplimentaron el cuestionario KIDMED para conocer su adherencia a la dieta mediterránea. Posteriormente, se compararon las características antropométricas y el somatotipo en función del grado de adherencia a la dieta mediterránea. Resultados y discusión: Una kayakista mostró una adhesión baja a la dieta mediterránea, 38 una adhesión mediana y 51 una adhesión excelente. No obstante, una de cada tres no solía comer frutos secos y una de cada cinco tomaban dulces y golosinas más de una vez al día o bollería industrial en el desayuno. Al comparar a las kayakistas en función de su adhesión a la dieta mediterránea (adhesión baja-media y adhesión excelente) se obtuvieron valores similares en la mayoría de las variables antropométricas, en los porcentajes de composición corporal, en el somatotipo y en el índice de masa corporal. Conclusiones: Las piragüistas mostraron una adhesión media o excelente a la dieta mediterránea. No se encontró una relación clara entre los parámetros antropométricos y el grado de adhesión de las deportistas a la dieta mediterránea. Es preciso seguir analizando la interacción de estas variables para identificar posibles relaciones con la salud y el rendimiento en las piragüistas de élite (AU)

Introduction: Dietary habits and body composition are possibly two of the most modifiable aspects that influence athletic performance in competition and training, especially in individual sports. Objective: To determine Mediterranean diet adherence in a group of elite women paddlers and the relationship between these variables with anthropometric parameters and somatotype of the athlete. Methods: A 90 women cadets who belonged to the national elite canoeing underwent a complete anthropometry according to ISAK instructions; and they self-completed KIDMED test to know their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. After that, anthropometric characteristics were compared based on their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results and discussion: One kayaker had a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 38 a medium adherence and 51 an excellent adherence. However, one in every three not eats nuts and one in every five makes sweets more than once a day or industrial pastries for breakfast. When it was dividing paddlers based on their Mediterranean diet adherence it was found that the two groups (low and medium adherence and excellent adherence) did not show differences in most of the anthropometric variables, composition body percentages, somatotype and body mass index. Conclusions: The paddlers show a medium or excellent Mediterranean diet adherence. There was not clear relationship between anthropometric parameters and the degree of Mediterranean diet adherence in these athletes. It is necessary to continue researching the interaction between these fields in order to indentify possible relationships with health and sport performance in elite kayakers (AU)

Kinematic Variables Evolution During a 200-m Maximum Test in Young Paddlers.

The objective of this research was to determine the kinematic variables evolution in a sprint canoeing maximal test over 200 m, comparing women and men kayak paddlers and men canoeists. Speed evolution, cycle frequency, cycle length and cycle index were analysed each 50 m section in fifty-two young paddlers (20 male kayakers, 17 female kayakers and 15 male canoeists; 13-14 years-old). Recordings were taken from a boat which followed each paddler trial in order to measure the variables cited above. Kinematic evolution was similar in the three categories, the speed and cycle index decreased through the test after the first 50 m. Significant differences were observed among most of the sections in speed and the cycle index (p<0.05 and <0.01, respectively). Cycle length remained stable showing the lowest values in the first section when compared with the others (p<0.01). Cycle frequency progressively decreased along the distance. Significant differences were identified in the majority of the sections (p<0.01). Men kayakers attained higher values in all the variables than women kayakers and men canoeists, but only such variables as speed, cycle length and cycle index were observed to be significantly higher (p<0.01). Moreover, lower kinematic values were obtained from men canoeists. The study of the evolution of kinematic variables can provide valuable information for athletes and coaches while planning training sessions and competitions.

[Body image; literature review]. / Imagen corporal; revisión bibliográfica.

INTRODUCTION: Nowadays, in developed countries there are standards of beauty based on pro-thin models, which are internalized by adolescents and young people especially in the case of women, assuming it as risk factor for developing changes in body image and perception. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the current state of research in relation to body image, the sociodemographic variables that influence it, the relationship between body composition, conducting diets, eating disorders, sports and intervention programs and prevention, and the body image. METHODS: It was searched in Medline, Isi Web of knowledge and Dialnet as well as a manual search among the references of selected studies and in different libraries. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: A increased socio-cultural influence is associated with a greater perception of body fat, greater body image dissatisfaction and lower self assessment of overall fitness. This leads to a lot of teenagers and young adults to abuse to the restrictive diets and to suffer eating disorders. Numerous studies have analyzed the relationship between sports practice with body image disturbance; there are conflictive results. Moreover it is necessary to design objective tools to detect changes and enhance the design of prevention and intervention programs in order to avoid distortion of body image, especially in those age ranges where the population is more vulnerable to this phenomenon. CONCLUSIONS: The excessive current preoccupation about body image has resulted in the realization of diets and changes as eating disorders. There are other factors that influence body image and perception as the realization of physical exercise, although the results about the relationship between these factors are contradictory. Therefore, further work is needed on the issue by creating tools to detect changes and enhance the design of prevention and intervention programs.

Introducción: En los países desarrollados existen en la actualidad unos estándares de belleza basados en modelos prodelgadez, que son interiorizados por los adolescentes y los jóvenes, sobre todo en el caso de las mujeres, suponiendo un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de alteraciones de la imagen corporal y su percepción. Objetivo: Analizar el estado actual de las investigaciones sobre la imagen corporal, las variables sociodemográficas que influyen sobre ella y su relación con la composición corporal, la realización de dietas, los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria, el deporte y los programas de intervención y prevención. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en Medline, Isi Web of Knowlegde y Dialnet, así como una búsqueda manual entre las referencias de los estudios seleccionados y en diferentes bibliotecas. Resultados y discusión: Una mayor influencia sociocultural está asociada a una mayor percepción de la grasa corporal, a una mayor insatisfacción con la imagen corporal y a una menor valoración del autoconcepto físico general. Esto lleva a una gran cantidad de adolescentes y jóvenes a abusar de dietas restrictivas y a sufrir trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Numerosos estudios han analizado la relación de la práctica deportiva con las alteraciones de la imagen corporal, encontrando resultados contradictorios. Por otra parte, es necesario crear herramientas objetivas para detectar las alteraciones y profundizar en el diseño de programas de prevención e intervención con el fin de evitar la distorsión de la imagen corporal, sobre todo en aquellas franjas de edad donde la población es más vulnerable a este fenómeno. Conclusiones: La excesiva preocupación sobre la imagen corporal trae como consecuencia la realización de dietas y alteraciones como los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Existen además otros factores que influyen sobre la imagen corporal y su percepción como es la realización de ejercicio físico, aunque los resultados sobre la relación de ambos factores son contradictorios. Por esto, es necesario profundizar más en el tema, creando herramientas para detectar las alteraciones y profundizar en el diseño de programas de prevención e intervención.

Imagen corporal: revisión bibliográfica / Body image: literature review

Introducción: En los países desarrollados existen en la actualidad unos estándares de belleza basados en modelos prodelgadez, que son interiorizados por los adolescentes y los jóvenes, sobre todo en el caso de las mujeres, suponiendo un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de alteraciones de la imagen corporal y su percepción. Objetivo: Analizar el estado actual de las investigaciones sobre la imagen corporal, las variables sociodemográficas que influyen sobre ella y su relación con la composición corporal, la realización de dietas, los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria, el deporte y los programas de intervención y prevención. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge y Dialnet, así como una búsqueda manual entre las referencias de los estudios seleccionados y en diferentes bibliotecas. Resultados y discusión: Una mayor influencia sociocultural está asociada a una mayor percepción de la grasa corporal, a una mayor insatisfacción con la imagen corporal y a una menor valoración del autoconcepto físico general. Esto lleva a una gran cantidad de adolescentes y jóvenes a abusar de dietas restrictivas y a sufrir trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Numerosos estudios han analizado la relación de la práctica deportiva con las alteraciones de la imagen corporal, encontrando resultados contradictorios. Por otra parte, es necesario crear herramientas objetivas para detectar las alteraciones y profundizar en el diseño de programas de prevención e intervención con el fin de evitar la distorsión de la imagen corporal, sobre todo en aquellas franjas de edad donde la población es más vulnerable a este fenómeno. Conclusiones: La excesiva preocupación sobre la imagen corporal trae como consecuencia la realización de dietas y alteraciones como los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Existen además otros factores que influyen sobre la imagen corporal y su percepción como es la realización de ejercicio físico, aunque los resultados sobre la relación de ambos factores son contradictorios. Por esto, es necesario profundizar más en el tema, creando herramientas para detectar las alteraciones y profundizar en el diseño de programas de prevención e intervención (AU)

Introduction: Nowadays, in developed countries there are standards of beauty based on pro-thin models, which are internalized by adolescents and young people especially in the case of women, assuming it as risk factor for developing changes in body image and perception. Objective: To analyze the current state of research in relation to body image, the sociodemographic variables that influence it, the relationship between body composition, conducting diets, eating disorders, sports and intervention programs and prevention, and the body image. Methods: It was searched in Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge and Dialnet as well as a manual search among the references of selected studies and in different libraries. Results and discussion: A increased socio-cultural influence is associated with a greater perception of body fat, greater body image dissatisfaction and lower self assessment of overall fitness. This leads to a lot of teenagers and young adults to abuse to the restrictive diets and to suffer eating disorders. Numerous studies have analyzed the relationship between sports practice with body image disturbance; there are conflictive results. Moreover it is necessary to design objective tools to detect changes and enhance the design of prevention and intervention programs in order to avoid distortion of body image, especially in those age ranges where the population is more vulnerable to this phenomenon. Conclusions: The excessive current preocupation about body image has resulted in the realization of diets and changes as eating disorders. There are other factors that influence body image and perception as the realization of physical exercise, although the results about the relationship between these factors are contradictory. Therefore, further work is needed on the issue by creating tools to detect changes and enhance the design of prevention and intervention programs (AU)

Características morfológicas y maduración en mujeres kayakistas jóvenes de aguas tranquilas y slalom / Morphological characteristics and maturity status of young female sprint and slalom kayakers

El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir y comparar las características antropométricas, maduración, somatotipo y proporcionalidad de mujeres kayakistas de aguas tranquilas y slalom. Cincuenta palistas de 13 a 14 años de edad (26 de aguas tranquilas y 24 de slalom), fueron valoradas usando una batería de 29 medidas antropométricas. Se calculó el porcentaje de grasa, el somatotipo, los valores Z utilizando la estrategia Phantom de proporcionalidad y la maduración expresada como los años hasta/desde la edad de máxima velocidad de crecimiento en altura. Las palistas de aguas tranquilas se caracterizaron por una mayor talla y talla sentado que las de slalom, lo que podría interpretarse como un mayor desarrollo madurativo de las primeras. Los valores de proporcionalidad fueron similares en la mayoría de las variables analizadas. Ambos grupos de kayakistas presentaron un somatotipo medio clasificado como mesomorfo endomorfo, siendo las palistas de slalom las que presentaron un somatotipo más heterogéneo. La información aportada en este estudio puede ser utilizada como guía en el proceso de detección de talentos en mujeres kayakistas de aguas tranquilas y slalom...

The aim of this study was to describe and compare the kinanthropometric characteristics, maturity status, somatotype and proportionality between young female sprint and slalom kayakers. Fifty young female kayakers (26 sprint; 24 slalom), aged 13 and 14 years old, were assessed using a battery of 29 anthropometric dimensions. Body fat, somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and maturity status expressed as the time to/from the age of peak height velocity were calculated. Sprint kayakers were taller and had a higher sitting height than slalom kayakers, these differences could be explained by the greater maturity status in the sprint paddlers group. Proportionality values were similar in most of the variables analysed. Mean somatotypes were best described as mesomorphy endomorph in both groups, while slalom kayakers exhibited a higher heterogeneity. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint and slalom female kayakers...

Efecto de un programa de estiramientos de la musculatura isquiosural en futbolistas / Effect of hamstring stretching program in soccer players

El objetivo fue determinar la influencia de un programa de estiramientos de la musculatura isquiosural en la extensibilidad de jugadores de fútbol. Un total de 17 futbolistas de 3 división (media de edad: 25,12 +/- 4,16 años) y 19 sujetos sedentarios (media de edad: 24,26 +/- 5,64 años) (grupo control) participaron voluntariamente en el estudio. El grupo de futbolistas realizó, durante un periodo de 16 semanas, un plan específico de estiramientos de la musculatura isquiosural, que fue incluido dentro de su plan de entrenamiento, realizando dos series de cuatro estiramientos en las cuatro sesiones semanales de entrenamiento. El grupo control estuvo compuesto por adultos jóvenes varones que no realizaban actividad física alguna. A todos ellos se les valoró la extensibilidad isquiosural al inicio del programa (pre-test), a las 8 semanas (test intermedio) y al finalizar el programa (16 semanas, post-test) mediante el test de elevación de la pierna recta activo (EPR). Se encontró una mejora significativa (p < 0,001) en los valores obtenidos por los futbolistas entre el pre-test y el post-test en ambos miembros (68,90 +/- 9,04 y 77,80 +/- 8,25 en la pierna derecha; 66,10 +/- 8,15 y 77,10 +/- 7,77 en la izquierda, respectivamente). También se encontraron diferencias entre la valoración intermedia y el post-test (p < 0,016). Respecto al grupo de sedentarios, los valores del EPR se redujeron paulatinamente entre las tres mediciones. En todas las valoraciones realizadas, los futbolistas alcanzaron valores angulares significativamente superiores respecto a los sujetos sedentarios. La implementación de un programa específico de estiramientos de la musculatura isquiosural, al finalizar las sesiones de entrenamiento, en jugadores de fútbol, produce mejoras en la extensibilidad de esta musculatura, reduciéndose los casos de jugadores con una extensibilidad isquiosural reducida...

The objective was to determine the influence of hamstring stretching program on hamstring extensibility in soccer players. Seventeen amateur soccer players (mean age: 25.12 ± 4.16 years) and 19 sedentary subjects (control group) (mean age: 24.26 +/- 5.64 years) were recruited. The soccer players group performed a hamstring stretching program during the four weekly training sessions for a period of 16 weeks. The stretching program included four exercises and each session consisted of 2 sets of each exercise. The control group did not participate in any hamstring-stretching or physical exercise program. Hamstring muscle extensibility was determined by active straight leg raise angle before (pre-test), at 8 weeks (intermediate-test) and after the 16 weeks (post-test) hamstring-stretching program. Significant improvements (p < 0.001) were found in SLR angles for the experimental group in post-test for both limbs (68.90 +/- 9.04 and 77.80 +/- 8.25 in the right leg; 66.10 +/- 8.15 and 77.10 +/- 7.77 in the left leg, respectively). The SLR values decreased between measures in sedentary subjects. Active straight leg raise values of the soccer players were significantly higher in all measures. This study indicates that a stretching program performed at finish of training sessions increases the hamstring extensibility in soccer players, reducing the frequency of players with reduced hamstring extensibility...

Análisis de la morfología del raquis torácico y lumbar en mujeres trabajadoras de una cooperativa hortofrutícola / men Analysis of the thoracic and lumbar morphology in woworkers from a fruit and vegetable company

El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la disposición angular del raquis torácico y lumbar en bipedestación y sedentación relajada en mujeres trabajadoras de una empresa hortofrutícola. Un total de 50 mujeres (media de edad: 43,62+/-8,43 años) fueron evaluadas mediante un spinal mouse en bipedestación y en sedentación relajada. Los valores angulares medios para el raquis torácico y lumbar fueron de 32,74+/-8,76 y -21,66+/-19,12 en bipedestación y de 36,32+/-10,55 y -1,08+/-18,14, en sedentación. En bipedestación, un elevado porcentaje de casos (86 por ciento y 68,3 por ciento) presentaban una cifosis torácica y lordosis lumbar dentro de los valores de normalidad. En sedentación, el 74 por ciento presentaban hipercifosis torácica y el 20 por ciento una inversión lumbar. En conclusión, aunque en bipedestación la mayoría de las mujeres presentaban una morfología del raquis dentro de los valores de normalidad, en sedentación se observó un elevado porcentaje de casos con hipercifosis torácica y el raquis lumbar en inversión. Debido a las consecuencias negativas que se asocian a dichas desalineaciones raquídeas, es recomendable aplicar programas de mejora de la actitud postural en estas trabajadoras, preferentemente en su contexto laboral.

The aim of this study was to analyze the sagittal spinal morphology of thoracic and lumbar spine in standing and sitting in women workers from a cooperative in the production, handling and marketing business of vegetable and fruit products. A total of 50 women (mean age: 43.62+/-8.43 years old) were evaluated. The spinal mouse system was used to mesasure the sagittal thoracic and lumbar curvatures in standing and relaxed sitting. The values for thoracic and lumbar curvatures were 32.74+/-8.76 and -21.66+/-19.12 in standing and 36.32+/-10.55 and -1.08+/-18.14 in sitting. A high frequency (86.0 percent and 68.3 percent) of normal thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis were found in standing posture. While sitting the 74.0 percent and 20.0 percent presented thoracic hyperkyphosis and lumbar kyphosis. In conclusion, a high percentaje of women workers presented normality values in standing posture, although a high percentage of women were found with thoracic hyperkyphosis and lumbar flexed while sitting relaxed. It is recommended that these women carry out a program to improve their actitudinal postures in their work place.

Índices antropométricos en canoístas de elite jóvenes de aguas tranquilas / Anthropometric indexes in young elite male sprint canoeists

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las características de los índices antropométricos en canoístas de categoría cadete. A un total de 33 canoístas se les valoró peso, talla, envergadura, talla sentado, perímetros de la cintura y cadera, longitudes del brazo y antebrazo, así como diámetros biacromial y biileocrestal. Se calculó el índice de masa corporal (IMC), ratio cintura-cadera, envergadura relativa e índices córmico, de Manouvrier, acromio-iliaco y braquial. La mayor parte de los canoístas de categoría cadete obtuvieron valores propios de normopeso respecto al IMC, valores bajos de ratio cintura-cadera y una envergadura mayor que la altura. Existe una mayor variedad respecto al resto de índices estudiados, dándose un mayor número de casos de tronco medio para el índice córmico, extremidades inferiores largas para el índice de Manuovrier, tronco trapezoidal e intermedio para el índice acromio-iliaco y antebrazo medio y corto para el índice braquial.

The objective of this study was to describe the characteristics of the anthropometric indexes in male young sprint canoeists. Body mass, stature, sitting height, arm spam, waist and hip girths, arm and forearm lengths and biacromial and biiliocristal breaths were measured in the 33 canoeists. Anthropometric indexes were obtained: body mass index, waist-hip ratio, relative arm spam and cormic, Manouvrier's, acromial-iliac and brachial indexes. Most paddlers had a healthy weight for height, a low waist-hip ratio, and a higher arm span than stretch stature. Results were more varied in other indexes, with a higher number of paddlers who had intermediate trunk length for Cormic index, long lower limbs for Manouvrier index, intermediate an trapezoidal trunk shape for acromial-iliac index and a medium and short forearm length for brachial index.

Influencia de la extensibilidad isquiosural en la morfología sagital del raquis e inclinación pélvica en deportistas / Influence of hamstring extensibility on sagittal spinal curvatures and pelvic inclination in athletes

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la influencia de la extensibilidad isquiosural en la morfología sagital del raquis e inclinación pélvica en deportistas jóvenes. Métodos. Un total de 152 deportistas (media de edad: 16,22 +/- 0,80 años) participaron voluntariamente en este estudio. La morfología sagital de las curvas torácica y lumbar, así como la inclinación pélvica, fueron evaluadas con un Spinal Mouse al realizar los test sit-and-reach, toe-touch y McRae & Wright. La extensibilidad isquiosural fue determinada mediante el test de elevación de la pierna recta (EPR). En base al valor obtenido en el test EPR, la muestra fue dividida en tres grupos (Grupo A: EPR < 76, n=49; Grupo B, EPR entre 76-88, n=45; y Grupo C, EPR > 88, n=50). Resultados. Los deportistas con menor extensibilidad isquiosural adoptaron posturas de mayor cifosis torácica y una mayor retroversión pélvica en los test sit-and-reach y toe-touch. No obstante, no se encontraron diferencias significativas entre grupos en el test McRae & Wright. Además, la extensibilidad isquiosural no tuvo influencia alguna en la morfología sagital del raquis lumbar. Conclusiones. Una menor extensibilidad isquiosural está relacionada con una mayor cifosis torácica y una mayor retroversión pélvica cuando se realizan movimientos de flexión máxima del tronco con rodillas extendidas. La extensibilidad isquiosural no afecta a la disposición sagital del raquis lumbar en movimientos de flexión máxima del tronco.

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of hamstring extensibility in sagittal spinal curvatures and pelvic inclination on young athletes. Methods: A hundred and fifty-two young athletes (mean age: 16.22 +/- 0.80 years) were recruited. Thoracic and lumbar curvatures and pelvic inclination were evaluated with a Spinal Mouse system in the sit-and-reach test, toe-touch test and McRae & Wright test. Hamstring muscle extensibility was determined by passive straight leg raise test (PSLR). The sample was divided into three groups with regard to straight leg raise angle (Group A: PSLR < 76, n=49; Group B, PSLR between 76-88, n=45; and Group C, PSLR > 88, n=50). Results. Athletes with lower extensibility presented higher thoracic angle and a more posterior pelvic tilt in the sit-and-reach and toe-touch tests. However, no significant differences were found between groups when maximal trunk flexion with knees flexed was performed (McRae & Wright test). The lumbar curve was not affected by hamstring extensibility in any position. Conclusions: Lower hamstring extensibility is related to increased thoracic curve and more posterior pelvic tilt when maximal trunk flexion with knees extended is performed. Hamstring extensibility has not any influence in sagittal lumbar morphology when trunk flexion is performed.

Evolución de la morfología del raquis e inclinación pélvica en ciclistas de diferentes edades: un estudio transversal / Evolution of spinal morphology and pelvic tilt in cyclists of different ages. A cross sectional study

El objetivo principal del estudio fue determinar la morfología del raquis e inclinación pélvica en bipedestación en tres grupos de ciclistas de distintas edades, con un volumen de entrenamiento y experiencia similares. Un total de 65 ciclistas fueron divididos en tres grupos de edad: grupo 1 ( 30 años; n = 20); grupo 2 (entre 31 y 40 años; n = 25); y grupo 3 ( 41 años; n = 20). Posteriormente se les evaluó la morfología sagital del raquis torácico, lumbar e inclinación pélvica en bipedestación, mediante el sistema Spinal Mouse. Los valores angulares medios para el raquis torácico, lumbar e inclinación pélvica para el grupo 1 fueron: 46,60 +/- 10,09; - 26,40 +/- 7,17; 13,20 +/- 4,94; para el grupo 2: 47,64 +/- 8,58; -26,92 +/- 6,34; 12,24 +/- 4,45; y para el grupo 3: 50,75 +/- 12,77; -20,70 +/- 10,10 y 8,15 +/- 8,21. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el raquis lumbar e inclinación pélvica en los grupos 1 y 2, con respecto al 3. En conclusión, la edad es un factor que condiciona la morfología del raquis e inclinación pélvica en ciclistas que presentan los mismos años de práctica y volumen de entrenamiento en ciclismo.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sagittal spinal morphology and pelvic tilt in standing in three different age-group cyclists who had the same cycling experience and training volume. A total of 65 cyclists were divided in three age-groups: group 1: ( 30 years old; n = 20); group 2 (between 31 y 40 years old; n = 25); and group 3 ( 41 years old; n = 20). The Spinal Mouse was used to measure sagittal thoracic and lumbar spine and pelvic tilt in standing on the floor. The mean values for thoracic and lumbar spine and pelvic tilt were: group 1, 46.60 +/- 10.09; - 26.40 +/- 7.17; 13.20 +/- 4.94; group 2, 47.64 +/- 8.58; -26.92 +/- 6.34; 12.24 +/- 4.45; and group 3, 50.75 +/- 12.77; -20.70 +/- 10.10 y 8.15 +/- 8.21, respectively. Significant differences were found for the lumbar spine and pelvic tilt in the groups 1 and 2 with respect to group 3. In conclusion, aging is a conditional factor to the sagittal spinal morphology and pelvic tilt in cyclists who present the same years of experience and training volume in cycling.

Valoración del morfotipo raquídeo en el plano sagital en ciclistas de categoría máster 40 / Spinal posture of thoracic and lumbar spine in master 40 cyclists

El objetivo principal del estudio fue valorar la disposición sagital del raquis torácico y lumbar en bipedestación y sobre la bicicleta, en ciclistas de la categoría máster 40. Un total de 50 ciclistas máster 40 (media de edad: 44,02 +/- 2,51 años) fueron evaluados mediante el sistema Spinal Mouse en bipedestación y sobre la bicicleta en tres agarres del manillar: transversal, de manetas y bajo. En bipedestación, los valores angulares medios para el raquis torácico y lumbar fueron de 49,42 +/- 9,00 y -22,74 +/- 9,38, respectivamente. Un elevado porcentaje de los ciclistas (68 por ciento) presentaron una hipercifosis torácica, mientras que la mayoría tenían valores normales en la lordosis lumbar. Sobre la bicicleta, los ciclistas mostraron una reducción significativa de la cifosis torácica con respecto a la bipedestación, mientras que el raquis lumbar se disponía en una postura de inversión. En conclusión, la frecuente hipercifosis torácica en bipedestación de los ciclistas de la categoría máster 40 no está relacionada directamente con la postura adoptada sobre la bicicleta.

The aim of this study was to determine the sagittal spinal morphology of thoracic and lumbar spine in relaxed standing and sitting on the bycicle in master 40 cyclists. A total of 50 master 40 male cyclists (mean age: 44.02 +/- 2.51 years) were evaluated. The Spinal Mouse system was used to measure the sagittal thoracic and lumbar curve in standing and sitting on the bicycle at three different handlebar-hand positions (high, medium, and low). The values for thoracic and lumbar curvatures in standing were 49.42 +/- 9.00 and -22.74 +/- 9.38, respectively. A high frecuency of thoracic hyperkyphosis in standing was observed (68 percent). When sitting on the bicycle the thoracic curve showed lower angles in the three handlebar.hand positions that in standing. The lumbar curve adopted a kyphotic posture. The standing thoracic hyperkyphosis in master 40 cyclists may be related to other factors than the posture adopted on the bicycle.