Influence of five-month preparatory period on changes of morphological and performance parameters in the Czech junior representatives in whitewater slalom

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Reaching the highest levels of performance in top-level sport relates to an assumption of optimal development of somatic parameters that form an important part of the sport performance. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to capture the dynamics of the morphological changes and performance parameters of the current Czech junior representatives in whitewater slalom with regard to a five-month preparatory period. METHODS: The survey was carried out at the beginning of the preparatory period and after its termination (5 months). 21 representatives of the Czech Republic from the Junior Slalom category on whitewater participated in this research. Of the total studied probands were 14 men with a mean age of 16.03 ±0.56 years. There were 7 women with a mean age of 16.20 ±1.12 years. The anthropometric methods and bioelectrical impedance method (BIA) were used. Performance indicators evaluated the development of muscle power capabilities of the upper extremities, abdominal muscle development and aerobic ability. The research data was processed by the appropriate procedures in the program Antrop vers. 2000.1. Statistical analysis was performed in Statistica vers.10.0. RESULTS: Changes in morphological parameters with respect to a fivemonth preparatory period are reflected especially at the level of body composition and individual fractions. In a group of male and female athletes in slalom there was a reduction in the absolute values of body fat with simultaneous increase in muscle fraction and the total increase in lean body mass. In both groups there was an overall segmental reduction in the percentage of body fat, however changes are not significant. Changes in somatotype with regard to a five-month preparatory period are insignificant in both groups. Changes in selected performance parameters typically show a significant and positive difference in both monitored groups. CONCLUSION: The observed changes of morphological and performance parameters in relation to the preparatory period of junior representatives in whitewater slalom suggest that appropriately selected training program with the possibility of effective transfer to the racing season. The presented findings represent a part of the nomination criteria for the upcoming World Junior Championship in 2014. In addition, they are used in practice for further improvement of work with these individuals within their sport growth and subsequently successful representation of the Czech Republic in other age categories.

Keywords

• morphological characteristics
• body composition
• somatotype
• adolescence
• sport