Relationship between the Elbow Plank and body composition in 13- to 14-year-old female handball players

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between resistance time in the Elbow Plank position and body composition, focusing on fat percentage and fat-free mass.

Methodology: Fifteen female handball players from the Colegio Nuestra Señora de La Esperanza, in Ate, Lima, were evaluated. The age range of the participants was 13 to 14 years. Weight and height were evaluated. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Fat mass and fat-free mass were calculated by anthropometry. Maturity status was calculated by means of an anthropometric equation. The Elbow Plank test (seconds) was evaluated.

Results: The relationship between fat mass and Elbow Plank was negative and low (r= -0.09), however, between fat free mass and Elbow Plank test was positive and significant (r= 0.43, p<0.05).

Conclusion: Fat free mass (FFM) is a relevant and moderately determinant factor for strength endurance performance in young handball players, according to the Elbow Plank test. In contrast, body fat percentage has a negative and low relationship with this performance, indicating that body fat reduction does not ensure a significant improvement.