Anthropometric Characteristics, Somatotype, and Handgrip Strength of Highly-trained Field Hockey Players with Down Syndrome

Background: Limited research has explored the physical attributes of highly-trained field hockey (FH) players with Down syndrome (DS), including their anthropometric profile, somatotype, and handgrip strength. Objectives: To examine anthropometric profile, somatotype, and handgrip strength in the Chilean FH team for athletes with DS. Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, 4 males and 4 females (no differences in age, height, or weight between sexes) were assessed for anthropometric and somatotype outcomes six skinfolds (triceps, subscapular, biceps, abdominal, suprailiac, front thigh), two breadths (humeral, femoral), and four girths (relaxed and flexed arm, waist, hips, calf), using a Slim Guide caliper, and maximal isometric handgrip strength (Camry digital dynamometer). Paired and independent samples t-test were used to compare within (e.g. dominant and non-dominant hands) and between groups (e.g., males and females). Results: The group of athletes showed a mean body fat of 25.4%, and an endomorphic-mesomorphic somatotype (4.5-5.6-0.9, i.e. increased body fat and muscle mass). Female and male right handgrip strength was 29.2±16.1 vs 18.2±3.3 kg, respectively, although without significant between-sex or between-hands differences (p0.05). Conclusions: The Chilean FH team for athletes with DS displayed an anthropometric profile leading to an endomorphic-mesomorphic somatotype. Female and male handgrip strength was similar, although females exhibited a tendency toward greater values. Data from previous literature indicates that FH players without DS exhibit a different anthropometric profile, leading to an ectomorphic-mesomorphic somatotype. Therefore, current findings may help practitioners to elaborate more specific training interventions for DS FH players, and to settling a base for future studies.