Physical self-concept and body composition: relationship with artistic performance in acrobatic gymnastics

Physical self-concept and body composition in aesthetic disciplines are important due to their influence on performance in competition. The aim of this study was to analyse possible relationships between different anthropometric measures and dimensions of physical self-concept (PSC) with artistic performance in elite acrobatic gymnasts during competition. A quantitative correlational study was conducted with a sample of 50 gymnasts aged between 11 and 19 years (14.9±2.39), 28% male and 72% female. The sample was divided into two groups according to the total score obtained at the 2021 Spanish Championships. Body mass index (BMI) and the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire (CAF) were analysed. The results showed higher CAF scores in the group with better performance, although a significant difference was only found in the Strength (F) dimension (U=137.0; p=.001). Artistic scores were also significantly higher in this group across all exercises: Balance (U = 134.0; p = .001), Dynamic (U = 39.5; p = .000), and Combined (U = 119.5; p = .000). The strongest associations were found in the higher-performing Group 1, with positive relationships observed between the dimensions of physical condition, strength, and general physical self-concept and the Balance exercise; physical condition and the Dynamic exercise; and strength and the Combined exercise. In the lower-performing Group 2, only the General self-concept dimension was associated with the Combined and Dynamic exercises. Anthropometric variables were positively associated with physical appearance, physical condition, and sports ability in Group 1, and with strength in Group 2.