Correlation between muscle power and performance in the Brazilian Ranking of Optimist Sailing Class Athletes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.1981-4690.2026e40238962Keywords:
Aquatic sports, Youth sports, Physical exerciseAbstract
Introduction: Sailing is a complex sport where performance is influenced by technical and tactical factors, as well as physical fitness. The “hiking” position, essential for boat balance, requires quasi-isometric contractions and peaks of muscle power in both upper limbs (UL) and lower limbs (LL). However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the relationship between power and performance in youth categories. Objective: To verify the correlation between muscle power and the competitive performance of Optimist class sailors. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 60 athletes (aged 9 to 15 years) participating in the 2024 Selection. LL power was assessed using the countermovement jump (CMJ), and UL power was measured by the medicine ball throw. Performance was determined by the 2024 National Ranking position. Statistical analyses included Spearman’s correlation and multiple linear regression adjusted for age and weight. Results: Significant but weak negative correlations were found between ranking position and LL power (ρ = -0.300; p = 0.011), relative power (ρ = -0.229; p = 0.045), and UL power (ρ = -0.247; p = 0.032). In the regression model, only age showed a trend toward an association with performance (p = 0.051), while power variables lost significance after maturational adjustment. Conclusion: A correlation exists between muscle power and performance in the Optimist class when analyzed in isolation. However, the maturational factor (age) exerts a predominant influence on competitive performance in this age group.
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