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Digit ratio (2D:4D) and sprinting speed in boys
1MRC Epidemiology Resource Unit, Southampton University, Southampton, United Kingdom. jtm@mrc.soton.ac.uk
Summary
Lower digit ratio (2D:4D), indicating higher prenatal testosterone, correlates with faster sprinting times in boys. This finding suggests digit ratio is a weaker predictor of sprinting speed compared to endurance performance.
Area of Science:
- Human biology
- Sports science
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a proposed indicator of prenatal testosterone exposure.
- Previous research links lower 2D:4D to enhanced athletic performance, particularly in endurance events.
- The relationship between 2D:4D and sprinting speed remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between digit ratio (2D:4D) and sprinting speed in young males.
- To determine if 2D:4D predicts sprinting performance in a similar manner to endurance performance.
Main Methods:
- Measured 50m running times and split times (20m, 30m, 40m) in 241 boys.
- Calculated digit ratio (2D:4D) from finger lengths.
- Analyzed correlations between 2D:4D and running performance, controlling for age, BMI, and maturity.
Main Results:
- A positive correlation was observed between 2D:4D and 50m running times, meaning lower 2D:4D was associated with faster sprints.
- This relationship held for split times at 20m, 30m, and 40m.
- The observed associations for sprinting were weaker than those previously reported for endurance running.
Conclusions:
- Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a weak predictor of sprinting speed in boys.
- The findings suggest 2D:4D may be a stronger predictor of aerobic efficiency than anaerobic power or strength.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role of 2D:4D in different athletic disciplines and its predictive power.
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