Body Composition and Determination of Somatotype of the Spanish Elite Female Futsal Players

Trends in anthropometric and somatotype profiles of Brazilian female futsal players: a 20 year study

This study describes the anthropometric measurements and somatotype of the elite female futsal players from Brazil in 2021 and analyse the changes and trends over time in these physical characteristics. Data were collected from the 396 female futsal players, of whom; 169 players were assessed in 2021 then compared to those assessed in 2001 (n=112) and 2011 (n-115). Anthropometric measurements, including body weight, height, breadths, girths, and skinfolds were assessed. The somatotype was calculated and graphically represented. The changes between 2021 and the previous years were analysed using ANOVA and multiple linear regression. A jointpoint regression was performed to verify the annual percentage change. The comparison between 2021 data versus the other time points showed a higher age and lower fat content (2001: 22.7 ± 5.1 BF%; 2011: 22.2 ± 5.2 BF%; 2021: 19.0 ± 5.1 BF%). Players from 2021 had higher tensed arm and relaxed calf girths. All the positions, excluding pivots, significantly decreased their body fat units between 2021 and 2001 (goalkeeper: b=-4.49; defender: b=-2.78; winger: b=-4.48). Over the last 20 years, body fat reduced, and tensed arm and relaxed calf girths increased, suggesting an increase in fat-free mass content from the limbs.

Research on women's futsal: a scoping review

The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive scoping literature review to provide an overview of the current state of research within women's futsal. We searched four electronic databases (SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) up to December 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised original research published in peer-reviewed journals, available in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. The focus was on studies investigating women in futsal, encompassing both players and those in leadership positions, regardless of their age or skill level. The analysis included the authorship (location), population characteristics (number of participants, level of play, and age), themes explored, and primary findings. A total of 692 records were found, but only 175 met the selection criteria. The results highlighted a recent attention in the scientific literature, with the first publications emerging in 2005 and a notable increase since 2016. Strength and Conditioning topics constituted the most frequently explored area, comprising 32% of the studies. Notably, no studies focusing on coaching or management aspects were identified. In terms of the participant population, most studies concentrated on high-level (33%) and senior (84%) players. Few studies have investigated practitioners with disabilities or women in other positions such as coaches or managers. Most of the studies were conducted by Brazilian researchers (60%), indicating the need for investigations in different socio-cultural contexts. The recent academic attention and the upcoming inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World CupTM in 2025 reinforce the need for further studies on women's futsal. This review contributes by identifying the scientific gaps that can be explored by future investigations.

Maturity-Related Variations in Morphology, Body Composition, and Somatotype Features among Young Male Football Players

The study aimed to investigate differences in anthropometry, body composition (BC), and somatotype in young football players of the same chronological age according to the maturity stage. Overall, 64 elite players (age: 14.28 ± 0.46 years) were evaluated for standing and sitting body height, girth measures, and BC using the bioelectric impedance scale and skinfold thickness. In total, two-thirds (73.44%, n = 47) of football players were classified as on-time maturers, 12.50% (n = 8) were early maturing, and 14.06% (n = 9) were late maturing. Standing and sitting height, leg length, fat-free mass, and muscle mass were significantly different (p < 0.001) across maturity groups. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) with maturity progression was seen for subscapular and suprailiac skinfolds along with a girth increase at all sites (p < 0.05). Early maturers were balanced ectomorphs, while on-time and late maturers featured mesomorph-ectomorph characteristics. The obtained results suggested that mature players have better BC presented as a lower fat percentage along with higher muscle mass, advantages in circumferences, and longitudinal dimensions of the body with highlighted mesomorph features. Maturity can have a substantial influence on body measures, thereby affecting sport-specific performance. Early maturers can use their anthropometric advantages and compensate for a lack of talent, consequently preventing even participation of physically undeveloped players in training. A better understanding of maturity, BC, and somatotypes can help in the selection of young talented players.