Comparison of selected physiological and anthropometrical variables of sprinters of National Sports University and RCC Manipur, Northeast India

BACKGROUND: Sprint performance is influenced by physiological and anthropometric characteristics. Understanding variation among athletes from different training environments may help optimize training regimens. This study aimed to compare physiological and anthropometric variables between sprinters from the National Sports University (NSU) and those enrolled in a Regular Coaching Camp (RCC).METHODS: Twenty young male sprinters (NSU=10, RCC=10) participated in the study. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), body surface area (BSA), Ponderal Index (PI), and percentage body fat (%BF). Physiological parameters assessed included breath-holding capacity, hydration status, maximum and average power output, and Fatigue Index. Anaerobic performance was evaluated using the Running-based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST). Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 27 (SPSS Inc.).RESULTS: RCC athletes demonstrated significantly greater anaerobic performance compared to NSU athletes. Maximum power was higher in the RCC group (949.94±147.34 W) compared to the NSU group (708.36±184.17 W), and average power was also greater in the RCC group (838.86±157.07 W) than in the NSU group (626.05±171.59 W). Additional significant differences were observed in other physiological and anthropometric measures favouring RCC sprinters.CONCLUSIONS: Significant physiological and anthropometric differences exist between NSU and RCC sprinters, with RCC athletes demonstrating superior anaerobic capacity. These findings underscore the importance of tailored training programs to enhance anaerobic power and overall sprint performance.