SOMATOTYPE AND DIGITAL DERMATOGLYPHIC IN MEXICAN FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Evaluating body shape and capacities is needed for selection, classification and training of football players. The present study examined in Mexican male football players (N = 49) the relationship between types of somatotype and types of physical capacities according to digital dermatoglyphics. The frequencies of types of somatotype and of physical capacities were compared between football players subgroups. A higher proportion of football players was characterised by a balanced mesomorph somatotype with dermatoglyphic type 2 and 3 corresponding to strength, explosive strength and velocity. This is consistent with previous findings in Chilenean and Brazilian footballers, Therefore extending the available evidence of somatotype and dermatoglyphics in Latin American football players.