Explosive Strength Modeling in Children: Trends According to Growth and Prediction Equation

Abstract

Lower limb explosive strength has been widely used to evaluate physical fitness and general health in children. A plethora of studies have scoped the practicality of the standing broad jump (SBJ), though without accounting for body dimensions, which are tremendously affected by growth. This study aimed at modeling SBJ-specific allometric equations, underlying an objectively predictive approach while controlling for maturity offset (MO). A total of 7317 children (8–11 years) were tested for their SBJs; demographics and anthropometrics data were also collected. The multiplicative model with allometric body size components, MO, and categorial differences were implemented with SBJ performance. The log-multiplicative model suggested that the optimal body shape associated with SBJs is ectomorphic (M = −0.375; H = 1.383). Likewise, age, sex, and age–sex interactions were revealed to be significant (p < 0.001). Our results confirmed the efficacy of the allometric approach to identify the most appropriate body size and shape in children. Males, as they mature, did not significantly augment their performances, whereas females did, outperforming their peers. The model successfully fit the equation for SBJ performance, adjusted for age, sex, and MO. Predictive equations modeled on developmental factors are needed to interpret appropriately the performances that are used to evaluate physical fitness.

Allometric association between physical fitness test results, body size/shape, biological maturity, and time spent playing sports in adolescents

“…This study provides information about strength status in adolescents: children with an ectomorphic body shape, due to their taller physique and reduced body mass, performed better on the speed-agility and the explosive strength tests, as reported previously [ 36 ]. A linear body shape and engagement in EHS could provide useful clues for talent identification.…”

“…We may speculate that while late developers have longer legs, more importantly, they have a relatively short upper torso (less upper body mass to raise doing sit-ups). Furthermore, sports coaches need to consider the demands of the modern understanding of sports; fast actions rely on speed and agility [ 36 ], where team sport-specific movements are typically observed in the players with a small body size [ 34 , 35 ].…”

“…Our findings for EHS as the first predictor of performance based on strength suggest that the time spent playing sport can be usefully employed to enhance performance (e.g., lower limb explosive strength, speed agility, trunk strength endurance). An ectomorphic body shape is the best physique for better performance [ 16 , 17 , 35 , 36 ]. While there was a significant contribution of MO to explosive strength and speed (SBJ, SHR) performance (see parameter B in Tables 2 and 4 ), it did not affect strength-endurance (SUP) (see parameter B in Table 3 ).…”

Neuromuscular Training and Motor Control in Youth Athletes: A Meta-Analysis

“…However, another important consideration is allometric scaling, which may provide greater insight into the effects of physical growth on males and females (Carnevale Pellino et al, 2020). Previously, Carnevale Pellino et al (2020) found that girls outperformed boys in the standing broad jump when allometric modelling was used to normalize performance for anthropometric characteristics, further highlighting the complex effect of growth and maturation on physical performance. Indeed, increases in mass and stature, alongside increases in knee valgus angle (Lloyd & Oliver, 2012), cause different challenges for females, and these might help explain findings in our metaanalysis.…”

“…This finding may relate to differences in female maturation processes, including decreased neuromuscular control, and associated imbalances in muscle strength and activation patterns (Hopper et al., 2017). However, another important consideration is allometric scaling, which may provide greater insight into the effects of physical growth on males and females (Carnevale Pellino et al., 2020). Previously, Carnevale Pellino et al.…”