Body composition distinguishes between low- and expert-level professional futsal referees in CONCACAF

Abstract

Anthropometry provides valuable informa-tion about physical characte-ristics that may influence performance in futsal. This study aims to compare body composition, circumferences, skinfold measurements, and results from physical fitness tests between professional futsal referees with low experience level (LEPFR) and high experience level (HEPFR). Twenty-two futsal referees (LEPFR and HEPFR) participated in a cross-sectional evaluation that included body composition measurements and assess-ments of physical fitness through three main perfor-mance tests: the 20-meter sprint test, the change of direction ability (CODA) test, and the ARIET test. T-test analyses indicated significant differen-ces in body weight (p = 0.05), fat mass (p = 0.05), subscapular skinfolds (p = 0.001), tricipital skinfolds (p = 0.001), and abdominal skinfolds (p = 0.05) between the groups, with high-experience referees showing better values in these measu-res. Correlation analyses revealed a small positive corre-lation between the 20-meter sprint and thigh circumference (r = 0.41), a moderate inverse correlation between biceps circumference and the CODA test (r = -0.43), and a strong positive correlation between the CODA test and thigh cir-cumference (r = 0.57). This study highli-ghts the importance of specific anthropometric measure-ments, especially thigh cir-cumference, in the assessment of the physical condition of futsal referees. These findings support the inclusion of anth-ropometric assessments in physical fitness evaluations to optimize training strategies. Future research should further explore these relationships, focusing on their implications for sports training and the development of personalized programs for futsal referees and athletes.