The body composition and physical dimensions of 9- to 12-year-old experienced wrestlers

Body composition and physical dimensions were compared between 23 young, experienced wrestlers (mean age +/- SE = 11.0 +/- 0.21 yr) and 23 school children (11.2 +/- 0.24 yr). The wrestlers were among the best wrestlers from local wrestling clubs and averaged 2.7 (+/- 0.27) yr of experience. They had won 72% (+/- 1.8%) of the total 75 (+/- 9.1) matches. The comparison group consisted of volunteers from local elementary schools. Standard densitometric and anthropometric techniques were used to measure the body composition and physical dimensions of each group. The wrestlers were 4 kg lighter (P less than 0.05) and had a smaller percent fat than the comparison group (13.3 +/- 0.66% and 20.0 +/- 1.13%, respectively). The weight difference between groups was due to the larger fat weight of the comparison group since lean weight differed by only 0.8 kg. Fat differences were also reflected in the larger skinfolds and "fat" circumferences of the comparison group. No group differences were noted in diameters. It is concluded that compared to other children young experienced wrestlers have similar skeletal structures and lean body weights. The comparison group possessed more body fat.