Sport-specific performances in elite youth sport climbers; gender, age, and maturity specifics

Abstract Study aim : The increase in the number of professional climbers led to development since early age. Therefore, average age elite has decreased over last decade. Consequently, and maturity specifics should be investigated with influential factors climbing. This research aimed investigate forearm muscle strength youth sport determine gender, age, status as influence on performance climbers. Materials methods included 18 (Croatian National team members), divided into two groups: younger (aged 13–15 years) older 16–18 years). Variables anthropometric indices (body mass, body height, fat percentage, ape index), handgrip strength, climbing-specific strength. Results Climbers did not differ between groups studied variables. Also, no significant correlations were found among anthropometric/body-built performances, offset. However, when gender stratified, there associations capacity sitting position offset girls (r = 0.73; p < 0.05) but boys. Conclusion could explained by assumption that each subsequent generation is better than previous one. variables biological are probably related girls’ earlier maturation specificity sports selection. Forearm capacities a crucial determinant success climbing, good assessment these serve tool for sport-specific