AGE-RELATED DEVELOPMENT OF STRENGTH CHARACTERISTICS AND CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION IN SUCCESSFUL AND LESS SUCCESSFUL FREESTYLE WRESTLERS

Abstract

Aim. This study examines the interplay between manual asymmetry, strength development, and cardiovascular function in freestyle wrestlers of different competitive levels. Materials and methods. An analysis of 59 wrestlers (aged 15–20 years) of different competitive levels from Olympic reserve schools in Makhachkala was conducted. The Annett questionnaire and dynamometry were used to test for manual asymmetry. Deadlift strength was assessed using a deadlift dynamometer. Cardiovascular function was evaluated using automated cardiac interval measurement (Psychophysiologist). Statistical analysis employed Student's t-tests (Statistica 6.0). Results. Successful freestyle wrestlers demonstrated a higher prevalence of left-handedness/ambidexterity. Peak handgrip strength occurred earlier in successful athletes than in those less successful (16 vs. 18 years). Superior deadlift strength was typical of successful wrestlers. Cardiac adaptation to intensive training occurred at 15–16 years. Conclusions. The study demonstrates the informative predictors of competitive performance. Cardiovascular monitoring enables early detection of maladaptation and targeted cardiovascular prevention.