Body composition and handgrip strength relationship in young football players

The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between different body composition parameters and handgrip strength in football players aged 11 to 15 years. Handgrip strength was measured using a dynamometer, while body composition was assessed with three different devices: In Body, Omron, and Tanita. Body composition parameters, including skeletal muscle mass, body fat percentage, body mass index, and segmental muscle distribution, may significantly impact strength performance. The results of the study indicate a positive correlation between muscle mass and handgrip strength. Players with higher muscle mass generally achieve greater handgrip strength values, confirming the importance of muscle mass in the development of maximal strength. An increased body fat percentage negatively affects handgrip strength due to an unfavorable distribution of mass relative to functional muscle power. Furthermore, the distribution of muscle mass between the upper and lower extremities may influence the ability to generate force during the dynamometer test. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of monitoring body composition in football players to optimize strength training and improve overall performance.