Digit ratio (2D:4D) and performance in Indian swimmers.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Endocrinology
• Human Biology

Background:

• The 2nd to 4th digit ratio (2D:4D) is a proposed indicator of prenatal testosterone exposure.
• Previous research indicates a negative association between 2D:4D and both prenatal testosterone levels and sports ability.
• This study investigates the relationship between 2D:4D and athletic performance in elite swimmers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between the 2nd to 4th digit ratio (2D:4D) and athletic performance in national-level Indian swimmers.
• To compare 2D:4D ratios between male and female swimmers and a non-athletic control group.
• To explore the potential of 2D:4D as a predictor of sports potential.

Main Methods:

• Digit lengths (second and fourth digits) were measured from scanned hands of male and female national swimmers and age-matched controls.
• The 2nd to 4th digit ratio (2D:4D) was calculated for all participants.
• Statistical analyses were performed to compare 2D:4D ratios between groups.

Main Results:

• Male participants exhibited significantly lower 2D:4D ratios compared to females.
• Male swimmers demonstrated a significantly lower 2D:4D ratio compared to male controls.
• No significant difference in 2D:4D ratio was observed between female swimmers and controls.

Conclusions:

• Lower 2D:4D ratios in male swimmers suggest a greater influence of prenatal testosterone, potentially impacting athletic development.
• The 2D:4D ratio may serve as a biological marker for identifying individuals with high athletic potential, particularly in males.
• Further research could explore the predictive utility of 2D:4D in talent identification for sports.