Anthropometric and functional profiles of elite athletes from different categories at ABADA Capoeira World Championship

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize the anthropometric and functional profiles of 50 male elite competitors at the 2017 Capoeira World Championship organized by ABADA Capoeira School in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The competitors were divided into different weight categories: lightweight (VIOLA, [≤]76.9 kg; n = 15), intermediate weight (MEDIO, 77.0-85.9 kg; n = 25), and heavyweight (GUNGA, [≥]86.0 kg; n = 10). Two evaluation batteries were performed: 1) anthropometry and somatotype determination and 2) functional performance on push-up, sit-up, and sit-and-reach tests; quadrant jump test (QJT); squat jump (SJ); and countermovement jump (CMJ). Results reveal that the mesomorphic component of the somatotype differed between the GUNGA subgroup and other groups (F[2,47] = 7.617; p = 0.001), while ectomorphy differed between the VIOLA and GUNGA subgroups (F[2,47] = 3.899; p = 0.027). The \"endo-mesomorph\" classification predominated in the three investigated categories. For functional performance, there was a difference in QJT between the VIOLA and GUNGA subgroups (F[2,47] = 4.299; p = 0.019). The endomorphism had a negative correlation (p < 0.01) with the performance in the sit-up (r = -0.51), push -up (r = -0.39), SJ (r = -0.45), and CMJ (r = -0.49). We concluded that at the international level, male elite competitors show predominance in the mesomorphic component of the somatotype. Furthermore, the endomorphic component correlated inversely with functional performance in trunk and upper limb resistance tests and lower limb explosive strength tests. These results can help coaches in targeting specific training programs for Capoeira athletes who aim for a high competitive level.