INTRODUCTION

The word balance is characterised as an individual’s capacity to maintain the body’s

center of mass within the base of support. When an individual moves the balance is
maintained throughout the time in different directions along with appropriate safety,
speed and coordination. Balance is dynamic and it requires a continual and
spontaneous adjustments to adapt to external disturbances, through the use of
vision, muscle activity, joint positioning and through appropriate proprioception, and
the vestibular system. (Alonso A. , 2012)

Adults have better balance control when compared with the balance of children and
the balance of elders. Balance is maintained when the vertical line of gravity from the
centre of mass of body falls within the base of support. (Andrew, 2012 july 4) Is there
is a difference in balance in males and females? When comes males vs female
balance difference, there present anthropometry difference as well as anatomical
difference which may cause different imbalance performance when challenge. By
performing the balance test one should also get to know about the gender wise
difference of balance in adults i.e. the males or females, who exhibits a better
balance but the only limitation is the specific or limited sample size only. (Alonso A. ,
2012) A lot of studies explore this area, according to the previous studies balance is
slightly influenced by the anthropometric variables. Balance was more influenced by
anthropometric factors in males than females. (Alonso A. C., 2013) One of the study
by Kejonen conclude that there was no single anthropometric factor that explained
the variation in body balance. (Kejonen, 2003) (A.I., 2013)

The tests which are used for balance evaluation are the most appropriate type of
test that stimulates the functional activity to evaluate the working of the
musculoskeletal, vestibular, and visual systems. Maintenance of balance can be
affected by any injury can be musculoskeletal, or neurological limitations,
anthropometric factors, aging, use of drugs, physical conditioning, and sports
specific trainings like high intensity exercises, as well as extrinsic factors such as the
comfortability of the shoes or any footwear. (Kejonen, 2003)

In today’s world there present a number of adults hence maintaining their health
regarding balance of this age group is becoming even more important, also to
prevent the adult population from further complications associated with balance like
dizziness, postural instability. (Alam, 2011 Oct 12)

To evaluate balance there present a number of methods, starting with simple

observation, clinical test, scales, and posturographic measurements, to integrated
assessment systems of greater complexity. All of the methods have some
advantages and some limitations and can represent different outcomes with multiple
interpretations, and this is because every individual carry its own unique information
regarding individual characteristics especially anthropometric factors. (Alonso A. C.,
2013)

Aside from age and gender, body characteristics additionaly contribute to influence
stability. For example, individuals with short height is one of the reason for an
increased risk for falls in women. Less body weight is also find to be associated with
a poor stability, Foot anthropometry and problems such as foot deformities have also
been identified to contribute to functional impairment, for example, postural
instability. Altogether, the differences in body characteristics have been assumed to
influence the boundaries of individual balance. (Luna, 2012)

Anthropometric measurements are a progression of quantitative measurements of

the muscle, bone and fat tissue used to survey the composition of the body. The
main components of the anthropometry are height, weight, body mass index (BMI),
body circumferences (waist, hip and limbs). These estimations are significant
because they speaks the diagnostic criteria for obesity, which further increases the
complications of the conditions like cardiovascular disease, hypertension etc.
(Kejonen, 2003)

Anthropometry gives the single most convenient, universally applicable, cost

effective and non-invasive method for evaluating the size, proportions and size of the
human body.

In both genders like as balance anthropometry also varies, double analysis is made
in order to determine whether anthropometry and balance is associated in function of
both genders males and females. (Vaghela, 2018)
The ability to balance is a result of complex coordination between musculoskeletal
and nervous systems (Furman, 2002). If the balance is lost, the individual must try to
quickly and effectively recover the balanced position. Balance recovery is important
for the prevention of an injury resulting from a fall (Rivara et al., 1998). This is of
particular interest to young athletes as injuries can impair future motor skill
development (Verhagen et al., 2005). An understanding of the importance of balance
to young athletes and its contribution to skill proficiency is required to prevent injuries
and aid rehabilitation. This understanding begins with the assessment of balance
ability to discern the current skill level.

Balance is a complex skill requiring motor and sensory mechanisms to determine the
maintenance or stability of the body's position. Maintenance of static balance is
required when the situation demands the athlete to remain stationary (e.g., line of
scrimmage in American football), while dynamic balance is needed when the athlete
is on the move (e.g., driving to the basketball net). Static balance is defined as
maintaining the center of mass over the base of support while standing, while
dynamic balance is the ability to maintain postural control during movements of the
body (Hrysomallis, 2007).

Gender differences exist in various motor skills and men have better static balance,
while women have better dynamic balance (Laurent et al., 2008). Balance ability has
a strong influence on performance in many sports (Gribble et al., 2004). Balance
ability often distinguishes high-level athletes from low-level athletes (Hrysomallis,
2007). Young athletes are comparable to high-level athletes as extensive practice of
various athletic skills often leads to proficiency in these particular skills (Gallahue &
Ozmun, 2003). It is therefore reasonable to believe that balance ability is an
important skill for young athletes.

1.1. Background

This belief, however, is not supported by other data. Shumway-Cook and Woollacott
stated that very little is known about whether children differ in their static and
dynamic balance skills, as research in this area is rare. They have also said that it is
difficult to compare balance performance across studies due to the variety of
assessments used and the diverse subject populations. This is still an issue today as
there are still too many ways to test balance and there is no definitive test to
measure balance for the young. Static balance is the ability to maintain a position
over the base of support within stability limits and under given conditions. Dynamic
balance is the ability to maintain postural stability and controlled mobility. The
structure of our balance test on a balance board allows us to test both static and
dynamic balance with the different conditions provided, i.e., eyes open and closed.

Poor balance in athletes is caused by weakness of core stability muscles, poor

postural alignment, and balance strategies involving ankle and foot positioning,
which may affect the center of gravity resulting in a loss of balance. Balance was
defined as a state of equilibrium, especially when visual references are disturbed or
in the dark. This definition applies to our study as the balance of the athletes was
tested under these conditions on a balance board. There is conflicting evidence as to
whether females have a balance advantage over males. Paul and Grecley believed
that girls are superior. They stated that from five years of age, girls perform better
than boys on tasks requiring static balance, with better bilateral coordination and the
ability to perform movement sequencing without a loss of equilibrium.

An anthropometric study examines the measurement of the human body in terms of

dimensions and shapes, as it depicts the adjustment to biomechanical conditions
and states of the sport. This may influence the balance performance of young
athletes in sports. This statement is supported by Malina (1994), who states that
anthropometry is the principal tool for describing individual sports and teams, as it
hypothetically or practically influences performance outcomes in sports. In the same
breath, he also underscores the potential of anthropometry to predict and measure
growth and maturity, and its influence on sport performance. This can allow
clinicians, educators, and coaches to enhance growth, development, and sport
performance. This is also supported by Malina et al. (2004), who state that it is
important for sport and exercise scientists, as well as medical and health
professionals in various sectors. This is due to the increasingly diverse health status
of children and adolescents, as well as the increased popularity and participation in
youth sports and the more advanced scientific knowledge of the effects of growth
maturation on selection and training in sport. The need for more specific information
on the physical attributes related to successful sport participation at various stages of
growth and maturation can be achieved through anthropometry.

Training is defined as an organized activity aimed at inducing adaptation of improved

performance. This may be in terms of skill or fitness. It is a learned process
consisting of programmed behavior in a sequence of experiences designed to train
skills and knowledge. The purpose of training is the acquisition of knowledge, a skill,
and know-how with and without equipment, problem-solving behavior to enhance the
quality of sport or exercise to achieve results. In this research project, training is
taken as a regular session of practice.

Balance is an important component of behavior requiring the ability to maintain the

line of gravity (vertical line from the center of mass) of the body within the base of
support with minimal postural swaying. It is a result of the body's complex
neuromuscular control involving the senses of vision, proprioception, vestibular
function, and muscle strength. Balance is known to be affected by age, neurological,
and musculoskeletal deficits. In research and clinical practice, force plate analysis is
used to detect both the quantity and the directional pattern of sway during quiet
standing, thus providing an objective measurement of the body's biomechanical
state. This is considered an indication of the quality of postural control and the
control limits of stability. Equally, it may be a useful measure of the progress of
balance in patients suffering from injury or a disabling condition. Changes in the
various measures of balance are often seen in patients undergoing treatment such
as physiotherapy or exercise-based rehabilitation. In the clinicals , monitoring
postural stability and balance helps in predicting falls, and therefore, after evidence
of exercise programs, it may be used in studies to see the effectiveness of exercise.

1.2. Need of the Study-

Anthropometric measurements indicates criteria for obesity, overweight and BMI &
therefore, it become important to evaluate whether they can also indicate or predict
balance impairment differently with respect to gender.
1. Enhanced Understanding of Gender Differences: Existing research on
anthropometry and balance in athletes often overlooks the gender-specific
nuances that may influence performance. By focusing on genderwise
analyses, this study seeks to uncover potential disparities in anthropometric
characteristics and their impact on balance abilities among young athletes.

2. Tailored Training Programs: Understanding how gender-specific

anthropometry correlates with balance can inform the development of tailored
training programs that cater to the unique physiological characteristics of each
gender.

3. Injury Prevention Strategies: Balance plays a crucial role in injury

prevention, particularly in sports that involve dynamic movements and
changes in direction. Identifying the anthropometric factors that influence
balance can help sports scientists and coaches devise targeted injury
prevention strategies. By addressing potential biomechanical vulnerabilities
associated with gender-specific anthropometry, athletes can reduce their risk
of injury and prolong their athletic careers.

4. Equity and Inclusivity in Sports: Gender equity in sports extends beyond

participation rates to encompass opportunities for performance optimization
and injury prevention. Recognizing the diverse physiological characteristics of
male and female athletes promotes inclusivity in training environments and
ensures that all athletes have access to resources tailored to their needs. By
conducting genderwise analyses of anthropometry and balance, this study
contributes to the promotion of equity and inclusivity in sports.

5. Advancement of Sports Science Knowledge: As an emerging field, sports

science continually seeks to expand its understanding of human performance
factors. By investigating the correlations between gender-specific
anthropometry and balance in young athletes, this study contributes to the
advancement of sports science knowledge. The insights gained from this
research can inform future studies, guide practical applications in athletic
training, and stimulate further inquiry into the complex interactions between
anatomy, physiology, and performance.
In summary, conducting an experimental study on genderwise anthropometry
correlates of balance in young athletes is essential for advancing our understanding
of performance optimization, injury prevention, gender equity, and sports science
knowledge. By addressing these needs, this study aims to make meaningful
contributions to both academic research and practical applications in athletic training
and sports management.
Aims & Objectives –

Aim- aim of the study was to find out the gender wise relationship between the
anthropometric factors and balance. The primary aim of this experimental study is to
investigate the correlations between gender-specific anthropometry and balance in
young athletes. By exploring how variations in anthropometric measures influence
balance performance.

Objectives:

The primary objective of this study is to investigate how variations in anthropometric

measures, such as height, weight, body composition, and limb length, correlate with
balance performance among young male and female athletes. By elucidating these
relationships, the study aims to provide insights into gender-specific strategies for
optimizing training programs and reducing injury risks.

1. To assess the anthropometric characteristics (including height, weight, body

composition, and limb length) of young male and female athletes participating
in various sports.

2. To evaluate the dynamic balance abilities of young athletes using

standardized dynamic balance tests, such as the Y Balance Test (YBT).

3. To assess the static balance capabilities of young athletes through

standardized static balance tests, such as the Single Leg Stance Test (SLST).

4. To analyze the relationships between gender-specific anthropometric

measures and dynamic balance performance scores among young athletes.

5. To investigate the correlations between gender-specific anthropometry and

static balance performance scores among young athletes.

6. To identify any significant gender differences in anthropometric measures and

balance performance scores among young athletes.

7. To provide insights into the implications of gender-specific anthropometry on

athletic training programs and injury prevention strategies.
2.1. Statement of Problem

Balance is a critical component of athletic performance, influencing agility,

coordination, and injury prevention. While extensive research exists on factors
affecting balance in athletes, there remains a gap in understanding how gender-
specific anthropometric characteristics correlate with balance abilities among young
athletes. This gap in knowledge presents several key problems that this study seeks
to address:

1. Lack of Gender-Sensitive Analysis: Existing studies on anthropometry and

balance often overlook the potential differences between male and female
athletes. Many studies focus on generic analyses without considering the
unique physiological characteristics of each gender. This oversight may lead
to ineffective training programs and injury prevention strategies that do not
account for gender-specific differences in balance capabilities.

2. Limited Understanding of Anthropometric Correlates: While numerous

studies have explored the relationship between anthropometric measures and
balance, few have specifically investigated how gender-specific
anthropometry correlates with balance in young athletes. Understanding these
correlations is crucial for identifying potential biomechanical advantages or
vulnerabilities that may impact balance performance differently in males and
females.

3. Inequitable Training Environments: Without a thorough understanding of

gender-specific anthropometry and its implications for balance, training
environments may inadvertently favour one gender over the other. Inequitable
training environments can hinder the development of athletes and may
contribute to disparities in performance outcomes. Addressing this problem
requires tailored approaches that consider the diverse physiological
characteristics of male and female athletes.

4. Risk of Injury: Poor balance is a significant risk factor for sports-related

injuries, including sprains, strains, and fractures. By failing to account for
gender-specific anthropometric factors that influence balance, athletes may
be at an increased risk of injury during training and competition. Developing
 effective injury prevention strategies requires a comprehensive understanding
of how anthropometry relates to balance in both male and female athletes.

5. Opportunity for Performance Optimization: By identifying the

anthropometric correlates of balance in young athletes, there is an opportunity
to optimize training programs and enhance performance outcomes. Tailored
approaches that consider gender-specific anthropometry can help coaches
and sports scientists develop more effective training interventions that
maximize the strengths of each gender while addressing potential
weaknesses.
Hypothesis:

1. There will be significant correlations between gender-specific anthropometric

measures and balance performance among young athletes. Specifically,
certain anthropometric variables, such as limb length, body BMI will
demonstrate significant associations with dynamic and static balance abilities
in both male and female athletes.

2. Male athletes will exhibit greater height and muscle mass compared to female
athletes, which may correlate positively with dynamic balance performance
due to increased stability and force production capabilities.
Study Design:

This was a co-relation study conducted among young atheletes

Study Sample:

The study population includes young atheletes

Place of Study: New Delhi, Dr. Vimal’s clinic Gulmohar Parsk

Sampling Method:- Snowball Sampling:

Sample Size:

The study was conducted among 60 young atheletes.

Selection Criteria:

Atheletes were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Inclusion Criteria: following were the inclusion criteria:

1. Age Range: Specify the age range of young athletes you want to include in
your study. For example, ages 16-25.

2. Athletic Background: Participants should be actively involved in sports or

athletic activities. This could include participation in organized sports teams,
clubs, or school teams.

3. Gender: Given the focus on genderwise differences, you would likely want to
include both male and female participants. Ensure that the sample size for
each gender is sufficient for meaningful analysis and comparison.

4. Physical Fitness Level: Participants should be in good physical health

without any conditions that may significantly impact their balance. This may
involve a basic physical fitness screening.

5. Experience Level: Consider the participants' experience level in their

respective sports. This could range from novice to intermediate or advanced
athletes.

6. Anthropometric Measurements: Include specific criteria for anthropometric

measurements such as height, weight, body mass index (BMI), limb length,
and any other relevant measurements that could potentially influence balance.
 7. Consent: Ensure that participants or their legal guardians provide informed
consent before participating in the study.

8. Language Proficiency: Participants should have sufficient proficiency in the

language(s) used for communication and assessment in the study.

9. Availability: Participants should be available for the duration of the study and
willing to comply with any study requirements or protocols.

Exclusion Criteria: following were the exclusion criteria:

1. Pre-existing Balance Disorders: Exclude individuals diagnosed with any pre-

existing balance disorders, such as vestibular disorders or proprioceptive
deficits, as these conditions can significantly confound the results.

2. Recent Musculoskeletal Injuries: Exclude athletes who have experienced

musculoskeletal injuries within a specified timeframe (e.g., the past six
months) that may affect their balance performance.

3. Neurological Conditions: Exclude individuals with known neurological

conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease) that may impact balance
irrespective of their athletic background.

4. Severe Visual or Auditory Impairments: Exclude participants with severe

visual or auditory impairments that cannot be adequately accommodated
during balance assessments.

5. Psychological or Cognitive Impairments: Exclude individuals with significant

psychological or cognitive impairments that may affect their ability to
understand instructions or comply with study procedures.

6. Medication Use: Exclude participants who are currently taking medications

known to affect balance or cognitive function (e.g., sedatives, antipsychotics)
unless cessation is feasible and safe within the study timeline.

7. Pregnancy: Exclude pregnant individuals due to potential physiological

changes affecting balance during pregnancy.

8. Substance Abuse: Exclude individuals with a history of substance abuse or

dependence, as substance use can impair balance and cognitive function.
 9. Language Barrier: Exclude individuals who do not have sufficient proficiency
in the language(s) used for communication and assessment in the study, as
this may affect their understanding and compliance.

10. Unwillingness to Participate: Exclude individuals who are unwilling or unable

to provide informed consent or participate fully in the study procedures.

Variable under study:

Body mass directly related to postural balance, weight, height, BMI, hip and waist
measurements

Instruments Required:

The instrument required in the study are:

- Inch tape- Used for measuring circumferences of body parts such as waist,
hip, thigh, and arm.

- Stop watch

- Data recording sheet

- Weighing machine

- Tape

- Questionnaires: A questionnaire is used to gather additional information

about participants, such as their sports participation history, training intensity.
Group Allocation:

The group allocation was done based on the genders:

Group 1

Total number of subjects= 30

Male atheletes

Group 2

Total number of subjects= 30

Female atheletes
PROCEDURE-

FLOW CHART

Start

Recruitment of Participants

Informed Consent Obtained

Anthropometric Measures

- Height

- Weight

- Body Composition

- Limb Length

- BMI

Balance Assessment Protocol

- Dynamic Balance Test (YBT)

- Static Balance Test (SLST)

Randomization of Test Order

Multiple Trial Completion

↓
 Data Collection Complete

Data Analysis Phase

- Calculation of Correlation Coefficients

- Subgroup Analysis (Male vs. Female)

Statistical Interpretation

Discussion

Results Conclusion

Summary Report

End

This flow chart outlines the sequential steps involved in the methodology of the
study. It begins with the recruitment of participants and obtaining informed consent,
followed by the collection of anthropometric measures and balance assessments.
Subsequently, data analysis is conducted, including the calculation of correlation
coefficients and subgroup analyses to compare male and female athletes. Finally,
the study concludes with a discussion of the results and a summary report.
Participant Selection

The study will recruit young athletes aged 16-25 from Dr. Vimal’s sports injury clinic
New Delhi. Participants will be divided equally between genders to ensure a
balanced sample. Inclusion criteria will include regular participation in competitive
sports and absence of musculoskeletal injuries affecting balance.

Anthropometric Measurements

Anthropometric measurements will be conducted using standardized techniques,

including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), limb length). These measurements
will provide insights into the participants' physical characteristics and body
composition.

Balance Assessment Protocols

Balance will be assessed using both dynamic and static balance tests, including the
Y Balance Test (YBT) and Single Leg Stance Test (SLST). The YBT evaluates
dynamic balance and lower extremity strength, while the SLST assesses static
balance and postural stability. Participants will perform these tests under controlled
conditions to ensure consistency and reliability.

Statistical Analysis

Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and

regression analysis to examine the relationships between anthropometric measures
and balance performance scores. Gender differences will be analyzed using
independent samples t-tests. The significance level will be set at p < 0.05.
Procedure-

This was a observational, cross-sectional study. Sixty subjects (both males and
females) are evaluated.

All the volunteers answered a questionnaire requesting personal information, in

order to identify the inclusion criteria (as mentioned in Annexure-1)

The evaluator performed all the anthropometric measurements (body mass, height,
and BMI) and the balance test. The balance test was performed using the Y
BALANCE TEST and SINGLE LEG BALANCING TEST(as mentioned in Annexure-
2)

For single leg balancing the person has to maintain balance on the single leg for the
specified duration. Keep the lifted leg slightly bent at the knee and avoid locking the
knee of the supporting leg.

For y test the person has to stand on one leg while reaching as far as possible with
the contralateral leg in three different directions. The three movement directions are
anterior, posteromedial and posterolateral, performed on each leg.

ANTHROPOMETRY MEASUREMENT:-

a) Weight measurement was done by using weight machine in kilograms, an athelete

has to stand on the machine barefoot and check his/her weight and record it

b) Height measurement was done using inch tape in metres barefoot

c) Waist circumference measurement was done using inch tape in metres taking
navel as the landmark for measurement.

d) Hip circumference measurement was done using inch tape in metres taking
greater trochanter of femur as landmark.

e) BMI was calculated using formula-

BMI = WEIGHT(kg)/HEIGHT2(m)

Unit is kg/m2

f) Ratio of hip to waist was measured by dividing both hip measurement and waist
measurement

After taking the measurement records were note in data recording sheet.(Annexure-
3)

OUTCOMES: of variables tested-

Weight was measured in kilograms (kg)

Height was measured in metres (m)

BMI was taken in kg/m2

Waist circumference was taken in metres (m)

Hip circumference was taken in metres (m)

Y test scoring and single leg standing scoring was taken as cumulative score as per
the scoring guidelines as mentioned in Annexure-2
DATA ANALYSIS

The experiment was done on 60 atheletes. No one is having any history of any
trauma, musculoskeletal disorder, cardiothoracic or neurological condition affecting
the lower limb.

All 60 participants met the inclusion criteria and their consent was taken for the
research.

Out of 60 respondents, 50% were male and 50% were female.

Female 30

Male 30

TABLE 1:Number of males and females

The targeted age in the experiment was 18 to 25. The average age of respondents
after data analysis came out to be 21.86. The average age of female respondents
after data analysis came out to be 22.03 and the average age of respondents after
data analysis came out to be 21.7.

The circumference of waist and hip was also taken in account to correlate with
balance. The average hip to waist ratio is 1.03, whereas the average hip to waist
ration in males is 1.03 & the average hip to waist ration in males is 1.03.

The Data Analysis is done using the Microsoft Excel 2013.

RESULT-

This study was conducted to understand the genderwise correlation of

anthropometry with balance in atheletes. There was a correlation present between
BMI and Balance but there was no evident correlation found between HC/WC with
balance.

Based on the analysis of correlations between anthropometric variables and balance

measures (RRRD and LRRD) among male and female young athletes:

1. Right Relative Reach Distance (RRRD):

o The correlation coefficients between RRRD and various anthropometric

measures (BMI, HC/WC) for both males and females were found to be
weak (0.111 to 0.121).

o None of these correlations were statistically significant (p-values >

0.05), indicating that there is insufficient evidence to suggest an
association between these variables and RRRD.

2. Left Relative Reach Distance (LRRD):

o Similar to RRRD, the correlations between LRRD and anthropometric

measures (BMI, HC/WC) were also weak (0.270 for HC/WC).

o However, only the correlation between LRRD and HC/WC showed

statistical significance (p-value < 0.05), suggesting that there is
evidence of an association between LRRD and HC/WC in both males
and females.
The Pearson correlation was calculated using Microsoft Excel 2013.

- Correlation between RRRD for male and female came out to be 0.11121009
and the p-value is 0.558507498. Since the p-value is larger than our chosen
significance level (a= 0.05), we do not reject the null hypothesis i.e. no
difference between the male and female RRRD for the given students.
Rather, we conclude that there is not enough evidence to suggest an
associated between the male and female RRRD.

The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between variables 1 and 2 in relation to the
Right Relative Reach Distance (RRRD) is approximately 0.111, with a sample size
(N) of 30.

Analysis:

 Given the low correlation coefficient (0.111) and the high p-value
(0.558), we can conclude that there is a weak positive correlation
between variables 1 and 2 in relation to the Right Relative Reach
Distance (RRRD). However, this correlation is not statistically
significant at the conventional significance level of 0.05.

 It's important to note that while there is a positive correlation, its weak
strength and lack of statistical significance suggest that other factors
may influence the relationship between variables 1 and 2 and the
RRRD. Further investigation or consideration of additional variables
may be necessary to better understand this relationship.

- Correlation between LRRD for male and female came out to be 0.270652635
and the p-value is 0.148010539. Since the p-value is larger than our chosen
significance level (a= 0.05), we do not reject the null hypothesis i.e. no
difference between the male and female LRRD for the given students. Rather,
we conclude that there is not enough evidence to suggest an associated
between the male and female LRRD.

The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between variables 1 and 2 in relation to the
Left Relative Reach Distance (LRRD) is approximately 0.271, with a sample size of
30.
Analysis:

 The positive correlation coefficient (0.271) indicates a weak positive

correlation between variables 1 and 2 in relation to the Left Relative
Reach Distance (LRRD).

 However, the correlation is not statistically significant at the

conventional significance level of 0.05, as indicated by the relatively
high p-value of 0.148.

 This suggests that while there is a positive correlation, its weak

strength and lack of statistical significance imply that other factors may
influence the relationship between variables 1 and 2 and the LRRD.
Further investigation or consideration of additional variables may be
necessary to better understand this relationship.

- Correlation between BMI &LRRD for male and female both came out to be
0.1153448 and the p-value is 0.3801628. Since the p-value is larger than our
chosen significance level (a= 0.05), we do not reject the null hypothesis i.e. no
difference between the male and female LRRD for the given students. Rather,
we conclude that there is not enough evidence to suggest an associated
between the male and female LRRD.

- Correlation between BMI &RRRD for male and female both came out to be
0.12175812 and the p-value is 0.35405697. Since the p-value is larger than
our chosen significance level (a= 0.05), we do not reject the null hypothesis
i.e. no difference between the male and female LRRD for the given students.
Rather, we conclude that there is not enough evidence to suggest an
associated between the male and female RRRD & BMI.

- Correlation between HC/WC &RRRD for male and female both came out to
be -0.0044772and the p-value is <0.05 . Since the p-value is lower than our
chosen significance level (a= 0.05), we do reject the null hypothesis i.e. there
is difference between the male and female LRRD for the given students.
Rather, we conclude that there is enough evidence to suggest an associated
between the male and female RRRD & HC/WC.

- Correlation between HC/WC &LRRD for male and female both came out to be
-0.0092065 and the p-value is <0.05 . Since the p-value is lower than our
chosen significance level (a= 0.05), we do reject the null hypothesis i.e. there
is difference between the male and female LRRD for the given students.
Rather, we conclude that there is enough evidence to suggest an associated
between the male and female LRRD & HC/WC.
 DISCUSSION

Gender Disparities in Anthropometry and Balance

The findings highlight gender-specific differences in anthropometry and balance

among young athletes. While males may possess certain physical advantages, such
as greater muscle mass, females exhibit unique strengths, such as lower center of
mass and enhanced proprioceptive abilities. These disparities underscore the need
for gender-sensitive approaches in athletic training and injury prevention.

The findings of the study on the genderwise correlation of anthropometry with

balance in atheletes provide important insights into the relationship between body
composition and balance, with implications for understanding factors influencing
physical health and functional abilities in young adults. The discussion based on
these findings can delve into several key points:

1. BMI and Balance:

- The significant positive correlation between BMI and balance suggests that
higher BMI may be associated with better balance among atheletes. This finding
aligns with previous research indicating that greater body mass may contribute to
increased stability and balance control, possibly due to greater muscle mass and
strength to support body weight.

2. HC/WC Ratio and Balance:

- Contrary to expectations, the study did not find a significant correlation between
the Hip Circumference to Waist Circumference (HC/WC) ratio and balance. This
finding challenges conventional beliefs that central adiposity, as reflected in the
HC/WC ratio, may negatively impact balance. It suggests that other factors beyond
central adiposity may play a more significant role in determining balance among
atheletes.

3. Gender Differences:
 - The absence of significant gender differences in the correlations between
anthropometric measurements and balance indicates that the relationships observed
hold true for both male and female students. This suggests that factors influencing
balance, such as BMI, may operate similarly across genders in this population.
However, further research may be needed to explore potential gender-specific
factors influencing balance in more detail.

4. Implications for Health and Function:

- Understanding the relationship between anthropometry and balance has

important implications for promoting physical health and functional abilities among
young atheletes. Given the positive association between BMI and balance,
interventions aimed at improving balance may benefit from considering strategies to
promote healthy body composition and muscle strength.

- The lack of a significant correlation between HC/WC ratio and balance highlights
the complexity of factors influencing balance and underscores the need for
comprehensive assessments that consider multiple dimensions of health and fitness.
Conclusion:

 The study reveals weak correlations between anthropometric variables (BMI,

HC/WC) and balance measures (RRRD, LRRD) among young athletes.

 Only the association between HC/WC and both RRRD and LRRD was
statistically significant, implying that hip circumference to waist circumference
ratio may influence balance performance.

 Further research with larger sample sizes and consideration of additional

variables is recommended to better understand these relationships and their
implications for training and injury prevention strategies in young athletes.

Based on the results, we can state that:

BMI and Balance have a statistically positive linear relationship (p<0.05).

The direction of the relationship is positive (i.e., BMI and balance are positively
correlated), meaning that these variables tend to increase together (i.e., greater BMI
is associated with greater balance).

Operational Definitions

In the context of the study on "Genderwise Anthropometry Correlates of Balance in

Young Athletes," operational definitions are provided to clarify the key terms and
variables used in the research:

1. Anthropometry:

 Definition: Anthropometry refers to the measurement of the physical

dimensions and composition of the human body.
  Operational Definition: In this study, anthropometry encompasses a
range of measurements, including height, weight, body composition
(e.g., muscle mass, fat percentage), limb length, and body mass index
(BMI). These measurements are obtained using standardized
techniques and equipment, such as calibrated scales, stadiometers,
and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA).

2. Balance:

 Definition: Balance refers to the ability to maintain stability and control

over the body's center of mass during static and dynamic movements.

 Operational Definition: Balance is assessed using both dynamic and

static balance tests. Dynamic balance is evaluated using tests such as
the Y Balance Test (YBT), which requires participants to reach as far
as possible in different directions while maintaining balance on one leg.
Static balance is assessed using tests like the Single Leg Stance Test
(SLST), where participants maintain balance on one leg for a specified
duration without support.
 3. Young Athletes:

 Definition: Young athletes are individuals between the ages of 16 and

25 who regularly participate in competitive sports.

 Operational Definition: Participants in this study are recruited from

local sports clubs and schools and meet the age criteria of 16 to 25
years. They are actively engaged in organized sports activities and
have a history of regular participation in competitive events.

4. Genderwise Analysis:

 Definition: Genderwise analysis involves examining differences

between male and female participants in a study.

 Operational Definition: Genderwise analysis in this study entails

comparing anthropometric measures and balance performance scores
between male and female athletes. It aims to identify any significant
gender differences in anthropometry and balance abilities, as well as
explore correlations between specific anthropometric variables and
balance outcomes within each gender group.

5. Correlates:

 Definition: Correlates are variables that are related or associated with

each other in some way.

 Operational Definition: In this study, correlates refer to the

relationships between gender-specific anthropometric measures
(independent variables) and balance performance scores (dependent
variables) among young athletes. Correlation analyses are conducted
to determine the strength and direction of these relationships, providing
insights into the factors that influence balance abilities in male and
female athletes.

These operational definitions clarify the terms and variables used in the study,
ensuring consistency and understanding among researchers, participants, and
readers. By clearly defining these concepts, the study aims to facilitate accurate data
collection, analysis, and interpretation of results related to gender-specific
anthropometry and balance in young athletes.