VARIATION OF DIGIT RATIO (2D:4D) IN ATHLETES AND DIFFERENCES WITH SPORTS GROUPS

The aim of this study was to determine the variation and association of digit ratios (2D:4D) of athletes on right hand (2D:4DR), left hand (2D:4DL), the mean value (2D:4DM) and the asymmetry (2D:4DA) with different sport disciplines. 1178 athletes from 25 sports disciplines and 29 countries were grouped into four sport categories: Endurance (n= 267, 22.7%), Power (n= 354, 30.1%), Ball (n= 344, 29.2%) and Combat (n= 213, 18.0%). Direct measurement of finger lengths of 2D and 4D fingers for both hands were performed using precision electronic digital calipers. Digit ratios were estimated to both hands. The main results were: Between groups with the pooled-sex sample, using the two-way ANOVA, significant differences were found among the Ball group in relation to the three groups for 2D:4DL and 2D:4DM. The Ball sports group was split into Opposition vs Cooperation and differences are made in 2D: 4DI, with better mean in opposition. These findings suggest that the Ball sports differ from other sports in relation to 2D:4D; mainly in 2D:4DL and 2D:4DM. The non-difference in 2D:4D between the Endurance, Power. These results have several implications important in the talents detection and selection and, will help to make decisions on training programs.