Effect of sports specialization on body composition and anthropometric data in female students of pedagogical universities

Aim. The paper describes anthropometric data and body composition of non-athletic female students engaged in various sports training programs. Materials and methods. 118 non-athletic students of Surgut State Pedagogical University were examined. All female students were engaged in various sports training programs during the year. We divided all partcipants into three groups, depending on sports discipline: Group 1 was engaged in General physical training with elements of athletics, Group 2 - volleyball, Group 3 - athletic gymnastics. Evaluation of anthropometric data was carried out by measuring body length, body weight, and chest circumference. Based on these data, the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Body composition was analyzed using the Tanita BC-730 body analyzer. Statistical data processing was performed using the STATISTICA 10.0 program. Results. It is established that the greatest effect on anthropometric data and body composition is provided by systematic classes with elements of athletics. In this group, after a year of classes, there was a decrease in body weight, body mass index, biological age and an increase in respiratory chest circumference and muscle mass. Regular exercises in athletic gymnastics throughout the year contributed to a decrease in body fat and an increase in respiratory chest circumference. Female students who played volleyball had an increase in chest circumference at rest and respiratory chest circumference with a slight increase in body fat. Conclusion. The study showed the effectiveness of athletic gymnastics and classes with elements of athletics for improving body composition. The data obtained confirm the need to develop new effective PE programs and implement them in higher education institutions.