Authors
Phornpot Chainok, Faculty of Sport Science, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
Radomyos Matjiur, Faculty of Sport Science, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
Piyathida Thongchai, Faculty of Sport Science, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
Rodrigo Zacca, [1]Research Center in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL), Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal, [2]Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal, [3]Nucleus of Research in Human Motricity Sciences, Universidad Adventista de Chile, Chile, [4]Laboratory of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
Jian Zhi Lin, Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan University of Sport, Taichung City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
International Journal of Exercise Science 19(1): 1-13, 2026.
DOI: 10.70252/IJES2026101
Abstract
Understanding the distinct biomechanical and neuromuscular demands of aquatic sports is key to developing targeted training strategies for youth athletes. This study compared neuromuscular profiles between male youth Thai swimmers and Optimist sailors by examining the Dynamic Strength Index (DSI) in upper and lower limbs. A secondary aim was to assess the relationships between the biological maturity, estimated via 2D:4D digit ratios and predicted peak height velocity (PHV) and neuromuscular performance. Forty male athletes (n = 20 per group; mean age: swimmers = 12.9 ± 0.7, sailors = 13.3 ± 0.8 years) completed ballistic (Countermovement Jump, push-up) and isometric (Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull, grip strength) tests. Swimmers showed significantly greater neuromuscular output in both limbs, with higher CMJ peak force (mean diff: 339.78 N; p < 0.001, d = 1.64) and push-up force (mean diff: 135.26 N; p < 0.001, d = 1.51), resulting in higher lower-limb DSI (0.86 vs. 0.70; p < 0.01, d = 0.89). Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant limb effect (p < 0.001, η²ₚ = 0.631) and a sport × limb interaction (p = 0.002, η²ₚ = 0.104), indicating sport-specific neuromuscular adaptations. Correlational analysis showed positive associations between lower-limb DSI and right-hand digit lengths and a negative relationship with PHV. These results underscore the importance of tailoring strength training to the sport-specific and maturational profiles of male youth athletes.
Recommended Citation
Chainok, Phornpot; Matjiur, Radomyos; Thongchai, Piyathida; Zacca, Rodrigo; Lin, Jian Zhi (2026) “Sport-Specific Neuromuscular Profiles in Male Youth Swimmers and Sailors: A Comparative Analysis,” International Journal of Exercise Science: Vol. 19 : Iss. 1, Pages 1-13.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70252/IJES2026101