Abstract

The objective of the research was to analyze the relationship between agility indicators with body composition and lower-extremity explosive muscle strength in young female tennis players. The study was observational, cross-sectional, correlational, and with descriptive characteristics. The sample consisted of 22 young Chilean tennis players (15.3±0.7 years old), selected in a non-probabilistic sampling for convenience. Anthropometric variables of weight, height, skin folds (triceps brachial, anterior thigh, and medial leg) and perimeters (arm, thigh, and leg) were measured. Body fat percentage (GC) and skeletal muscle mass (MME) were calculated. In addition, physical performance tests were applied; 505 with stationary start test (505), modified agility test (MAT), horizontal jump (SH), countermovement jump (CMJ) and Abalakov jump (ABK). The results showed that the agility tests (MAT and 505 tests) are better associated with the SH, 505 test (R2= 34% p<0.01) and MAT test (R2= 22%; p<0.05), in addition, for each centimeter of increase in the SH there is a decrease in the execution time of both agility tests (β=-0.02 s). On the other hand, the MME, GC, CMJ and ABK, do not show significant relationships with agility (p>0.05). It is concluded that agility shows a better association with the SH test in young Chilean tennis players, so that agility tests (505 and MAT) could be a specific method of evaluation in female tennis players.