A Comparative Study of Selected Anthropometric and Physiological Variables Among Indian National Paddlers

Abstract

Introduction: Canoeing and Kayaking are water sports featured by skill and endurance. Physiological and anthropometric variables play a substantial role in almost all games and sports and Canoeing and Kayaking could not be segregated from them. Several researches had been carried out in the field of Canoeing and Kayaking including anthropometric and physiological characteristics but very scanty account of these studies was concentrated on Indian paddlers. Hence, our study aimed at assessing the anthropometric and physiological profiles of Indian male and female Canoers and Kayakers and determining and explaining the differences between these groups. Method: Anthropometric parameters were measured according to standard protocols followed by ISAK manual. Body density was predicted using Durnin and Womersley equation (1974) and body fat % using the Siri method (1956). VO2max was predicted from Multi-Stage Fitness Test (MSRT). Results: Lean body mass was found to be higher in Kayakers than Canoers. Body fat percentage was found to be significantly higher among female Kayakers than female Canoers which was 26.53±4.28 and 18.96±1.54 respectively. Physiological variables when concerned showed that relative back strength and oxygen consumption of female Canoers were significantly higher than that of female Kayakers which were 2.22±0.14 kg, 45.20±2.17ml/min/kg and 1.83±0.18kg, 40.71±2.87ml/min/kg respectively. Conclusion: It had been found that both male and female Kayakers were found to be taller and heavier than the male and female Canoers respectively.