The relationship between jumping ability and morphometric characteristics in volleyball players at the specialized training stage

Aim. This study aims to determine the relationship between jump height and morphometric measurements in volleyball players of different age groups and skill levels during the specialized training stage. Materials and methods. Anthropometric data were recorded, including body mass, trunk length, and the lengths of the upper and lower limbs, shoulder, forearm, hip, and calf. Jump height was tested (with three attempts) using the Abalakov method. A total of 64 volleyball players aged 17–26 years were examined, with skill levels ranging from novices to Candidates for Master of Sport. The collected data were processed statistically with the calculation of Pearson’s rank correlation coefficient. Results. As athletic skill improves, the jumping ability of volleyball players increases, which is associated with greater lengths and circumferences of a number of morphometric characteristics. A stable increase in all parameters and a growth in correlation strengths were recorded in players who had reached the Candidate for Master of Sport level. In less qualified players, specific morphometric characteristics were identified, and increases in these were linked to improved performance in net jumps. Conclusions. Highly skilled volleyball players are characterized by a strong correlation between block jump height and the length of the trunk (0.858), upper and lower limbs (0.845) – particularly the forearm and calf (0.737) – as well as the circumferences of these segments (0.906). These findings highlight the necessity of selecting athletes with greater length in the trunk, shoulder-elbow, forearm, and hip.