Descriptive Analysis of the Developmental Trajectories of Longitudinal Morphological Segment Dimensions among Algerian Swimmers, Boys, Aged 11 Years

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the morphological characteristics of the longitudinal body segments of young, pre-pubescent swimmers (11 years old) undergoing growth. It also seeks to provide potential answers to certain questions concerning the health and growth status of Algerian child athletes and to present their profile in relation to existing international literature. Understanding the rate of morphological development of longitudinal segments and their homogeneity within overall body growth is also of particular importance for epidemiological studies in Algeria. We investigated Algerian male athletes, specializing in swimming, aged 11 years, from the regions of the Wilaya of Sétif and Algiers. The anthropometric measurements taken included: stature, sitting height, trunk length, upper limb length, arm length, forearm length, and hand length. The tests also encompassed the lower limb and its components: thigh, leg, and foot. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate analysis, also known as Principal Component Analysis. This method was employed to extract redundancies and correlations between these segments, which explain the state of homogeneity and the representativeness of longitudinal development in relation to stature during this age period. The results indicate that the development and bodily growth of the segments during this age period are characterized by harmony and significant redundancy among body parts. This observation confirms the similar growth pattern to that mentioned and described in scientific literature.