ISSN : 2663-2187

CORRELATION OF HAND MEASUREMENTS, ENERGY AND MACRO-NUTRIENT INTAKE WITH HAND GRIP STRENGTH IN ADOLESCENT BASKETBALL PLAYERS

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Prajakta J. Nande
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.10.2024.3540-3565

Abstract

Hand grip strength is a fundamental attribute of athletic performance, particularly in sports requiring significant upper body strength and manual dexterity, such as basketball. In adolescent athletes, identifying factors that influence hand grip strength is crucial for optimizing training and nutrition strategies. This study investigates the relationship between hand dimensions, energy and protein intake, and hand grip strength in adolescent basketball players. The sample comprised 400 regular practicing basketballers (girls & boys) of age group 10 to 15 years from different clubs of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Hand dimensions, including arm length, arm span, hand span, palm width and length, index and ring finger lengths, mid upper arm circumference, forearm circumference and wrist circumference were measured using standard anthropometric techniques. Dietary intake was assessed through a 3-day food diary, and hand grip strength was evaluated using a digital dynamometer. Results indicated significant correlations between hand dimensions and hand grip strength, with larger hand spans and longer finger lengths associated with higher grip strength (p<0.01). Additionally, dietary analysis revealed that higher energy and macronutrient intakes were positively correlated with hand grip strength (p<0.01). These findings suggest that hand dimensions and adequate nutritional intake, particularly energy and protein, play essential roles in enhancing haand grip strength in adolescent basketball players. The study highlights the importance of considering both physical attributes and dietary factors in training programs to optimize performance. This research provides practical recommendations for coaches and nutritionists to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving the grip strength and overall athletic performance of young basketball players.

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