Differences between weight groups of schoolboy Greco-Roman wrestlers in their fitness abilities

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine whether there were and what was the structure of probable differences in physical condition preparedness (fitness) of schoolboy Greco-Roman style wrestlers between different weight groups (Lightweight, Middleweight and Heavyweight). METHODS: The study was conducted on a sample of 190 schoolboys (11-13 years old), Greco-Roman style wrestlers. A sample of measuring instruments consisted of 17 tests for the assessment of anthropometric characteristics, motor and functional abilities. Different levels in manifest area of motor and functional abilities of three weight groups were established by univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA). The variables assessing fitness levels and the qualitative differences between them were tested by discriminant analysis. RESULTS: One discriminant variable was obtained that significantly discriminated between the three weight groups of wrestlers. It was defined by strength, coordination of the upper and lower extremities and flexibility. With the increase of weight, from the Lightweight to Heavyweight wrestlers, the results on tests for the evaluation of strength and coordination of the upper and lower extremities progressively declined. On the other hand, in the evaluation of flexibility, the results were grouped in a manner that the Lightweight wrestlers scored the worst, while the Heavy wrestlers were the best. CONCLUSION: The results show the importance of an individual approach to fitness training of schoolboy Greco-Roman style wrestlers as regards different weight groups.