Anthropometric Characteristics, Body Composition, and Somatotype Profiles of Elite Iranian Kabaddi Players

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and somatotype profiles of elite male and female Iranian Kabaddi players. A total of 78 players (38 men, 40 women). Measurements taken included standing height, body mass, sitting height, arm span, and eight skinfold thicknesses. Additional measurements included relaxed arm girth, flexed and tensed arm girth, waist, hip, and calf circumferences, as well as humerus and femur bi-epicondylar breadths. Body composition indices, fat mass, body fat percentage, fat-free mass, fat-free mass percentage, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and somatotype were calculated using standard equations. The average BMI and body fat percentage were 23.8 ± 1.6 kg/m2 and 8.3 ± 1.4 % for males and 21 ± 2 kg/m2 and 17.3 ± 2.6 % for females. Somatotype values indicated endomorphy-mesomorphy-ectomorphy ratings of 2.5-4.3-2.4 for males and 3.7-1.7-3.0 for females. Significant differences were observed between male and female players across all measured characteristics, except for subscapular and iliac skinfolds, hip girth, and WHR (P ≤ 0.05). The findings suggest that male kabaddi players are generally well-conditioned, while female players, particularly in terms of lean body mass, may require additional conditioning. These results could aid in kabaddi talent identification and training optimization. Given the limited research available on kabaddi players worldwide, further studies are recommended to enhance the understanding and development of this sport.