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Updated: Aug 3, 2026

Skeletal Muscle Gender Dimorphism from Proteomics
Published on: December 14, 2011
Skeletal muscle profiles in elite springboard and platform divers
Abstract:
This investigation determined the vastus lateralis muscle fiber composition, as well as leg power and strength, in a group of 10 world class divers. Male divers had a low mean percentage of Type I fibers (36%), which was consistent with the functional demands of their sport, whereas females had a mean value of 61%. The ratio of Type I/Type II cross-sectional fiber area was 0.95 in females and 0.82 in males. Angle-specific torque-velocity relationships, derived from Cybex testing of the knee extensors, revealed high torque values in males but not in females. The observed male-female differences have no clear explanation, unless muscle fiber composition has greater importance in the more difficult dives executed by men.
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