Affiliations: [a] Department of Health and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University of Advanced Science, Kyoto, Japan | [b] School of Physical Education, Department of Sport and Leisure Management, Tokai University, Kanagawa, Japan | [c] Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan | [d] Department of Athletic Training and Conditioning, School of Health and Sport Sciences, Chukyo University, Aichi, Japan | [e] Department of Sports and Health, Daito Bunka University, Saitama, Japan | [f] Montedio Yamagata Academy, Yamagata, Japan
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Junta Iguchi, Department of Health and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University of Advanced Science, 1-1 Nanjo Ohtani Sogabe-cho, Kameoka, Kyoto 621-8555, Japan. %****␣ies-30-ies200222_temp.tex␣Line␣25␣**** Tel.: +81 771 568 929; Fax: +81 771 292 389; E-mail: iguchi.junta@kuas.ac.jp.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies have investigated the variations in body composition and performance in Japanese collegiate American-football players. OBJECTIVE: To clarify what characterizes competitors at the highest levels – in the top division or on the starting lineup – we compared players’ body compositions and performance test results. METHODS: This study included 172 players. Each player’s body composition and performance (one-repetition maximum bench press, one-repetition maximum back squat, and vertical jump height) were measured; power was estimated from vertical jump height and body weight. Players were compared according to status (starter vs. non-starter), position (skill vs. linemen), and division (1 vs. 2). Regression analysis was performed to determine characteristics for being a starter. RESULTS: Players in higher divisions and who were starters were stronger and had more power, greater body size, and better performance test results. Players in skill positions were relatively stronger than those in linemen positions. Vertical jump height was a significant predictor of being a starter in Division 1. CONCLUSION: Power and vertical jump may be a deciding factor for playing as a starter or in a higher division.
Keywords: American football, performance test, body composition, muscular strength, power
