Allometric associations between body size, shape, and physical performance of Greek children

Pediatr Exerc Sci. 2009 May;21(2):220-32. doi: 10.1123/pes.21.2.220.

Abstract

We adopted allometric models to identify the most appropriate body size/shape characteristics associated with physical performance activities of Greek school children. Children underwent assessments for aerobic and anaerobic fitness, flexibility and hand-grip strength. Results suggest that the inverse Ponderal index and not BMI is the most appropriate body-shape indicator associated with running and jumping activities. Height was negatively associated with flexibility, but both height and weight were positively associated with hand-grip strength. In conclusion, allometric models provide a valuable insight into the most appropriate body size and shape characteristics associated with children's physical performances and at the same time ensure valid inference when investigating group/population differences (e.g., between gender and maturation status).

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Anaerobic Threshold
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Anthropometry
  • Body Composition
  • Body Size* / physiology
  • Child
  • Exercise Test
  • Exercise* / physiology
  • Female
  • Greece
  • Hand Strength
  • Humans
  • Isometric Contraction / physiology*
  • Male
  • Physical Fitness* / physiology
  • Schools
  • Statistics as Topic
  • Students
  • Task Performance and Analysis