Anthropometric, Physiological and Performance Characteristics of Elite and Sub-elite Fencers

The present study aimed at investigating the differences in selected anthropometric, strength-power parameters and functional characteristics of fencing performance between elite and sub-elite fencers Thirty-three fencers (18 females and 15 males) from the Greek National Team, (age 19 +/- 3 5 yr, body height 175 6 +/- 7 6 cm, body mass 66 1 +/- 9 1 kg, systematic training 8 4 2 9 yr) were classified as elite and sub-elite, according to their international experience Subjects underwent a detailed anthropometric assessment and performed selected leg power and fencing-specific tests Significant differences were observed between the two groups in sitting height, triceps, subscapular, and quadriceps dominant skin fold thickness, absolute and body mass-dependent expressions of leg functional power characteristics of fencing performance "tune of lunge" and tune of the "shuttle test" Anthropometric traits, such as height, body mass, percent fat and limb length were not different among elite and sub-elite fencers Although technical and tactical factors are good indicators of fencing success, the observed differences in functional fencing performance tests among different levels of fencers are useful for the design of effective talent development and training-conditioning programs for competitive fencers