2019 Volume 5 Issue 1 Pages 53-61
Anthropometry has been frequently utilized in a conditioning of athletes. Among anthropometric variables, skinfold thickness has been used as an indicator for total fat accumulation as well as distribution pattern of subcutaneous adipose tissues. In the present report, usefulness of skinfold thickness to monitor and provide appropriate conditioning of athletes was investigated. Twenty-one university rugby players (11 forwards and 10 backs) underwent body composition assessment using underwater weighing (UWW) method and also anthropometry using skinfold thickness measurements during the pre-season. Forward players showed greater triceps and subscapular skinfolds and backs players showed a greater subscapular skinfold compared with results reported in overseas. With assumption that less active muscle tissues resulted in a greater subcutaneous adipose tissue deposition, an exercise protocol of the upper back, particularly around subscapular region was modified. Modification in exercise protocol resulted in significant (p<0.05) reduction in subscapular skinfold. The results also showed tendency of reduction in triceps and increase in biceps skinfolds. The observed results of the present report may indicate that measurements of skinfold thickness may be useful to evaluate appropriateness of conditioning.
