Comparison of Physical and Physiological Performance Features of Parkour and Gymnastics Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the physical and physiological features of the traceurs with the gymnastics athletes. The study was carried out with twelve volunteer participants (traceurs=6, gymnastics athletes=6). The mean age of the traceurs was 18.67±1.03 years, 172.67±3.78 cm, body mass 62.5±8.94 kg and BMI was 20.98±2.97; gymnastics athletes was 19.33±1.21 years, 175.83±6.18 cm, body mass 65.17±8.06 kg and BMI was 21.11±2.67. Maximal oxygen utilization levels of traceurs and rhythmic gymnastics athletes were 56.13±3.95 ml/kg/min and 57.18±5.33 ml/kg/min respectively, their Illinois test times were 15.22±.42 sec and 15.33±.22 sec respectively, their vertical jump distances were 47.41±6.05 cm and 46.48±3.37 cm respectively, their vertical jump power values were 7252.7±1142.73 W and 7026.55±427.62 W respectively, their horizontal jump distances were 2.53±.61 m and 2.48±.12 m respectively, and finally, their hamstring flexion angles were determined by using goniometer as the measurement of hamstring flexibility (traceurs = 106.67±4.27o; gymnastics athletes = 121.33±5.36o *), and there was a significant difference between the angles hamstring flexibility of the two groups (*p<0.05). According to the results obtained from the study, it was seen that physical and physiological values obtained from two groups of athletes were very close to each other and no significant difference was observed between these two groups. This similarity can be explained by the fact that the training of these two branches does not differ as structural features. In conclusion, the learning of important performance determinants in athletes, such as aerobic power, flexibility, agility and explosive power, by the coaches and their education in this subject may enable the preparation of a better training program.