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Background. Specific hand anthropometric parameters might influence performance and could be useful for the selection and identification of talents among junior handball players. Aims. We aimed to study the effect of maturation on specific anthropometric variables - hand span as a static parameter and hand grip strength as a dynamic parameter, in handball players and non-athletes. Methods. The specific anthropometric variables determined by direct methods were the following: hand grip strength as a dynamic parameter; hand span as a static parameter. Results. Specific hand anthropometric parameters increase significantly with age. Hand grip strength and hand span are significantly increased in athletes compared to non-athletes. Conclusions. Specific anthropometric parameters measured in junior handball players can be used for the identification of talents in grip sports and for tertiary selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Basic anthropometric parameters (height, weight, circumferences, arm span) and specific anthropometric parameters (hand span, hand grip strength) might influence performance, success in competition, training conditioning, the playing position, selection and identification of talents. Aims. We aimed to study the anthropometric profile of junior handball players in relation to age, and the effect of maturation on general basic anthropometric parameters. Methods. The basic anthropometric measurements determined by direct methods were: weight; height; arm span; sitting height; abdominal circumference; biacromial diameter; bitrochanteric diameter. The anthropometric parameters determined by indirect methods were: body mass index (BMI) and chest elasticity. Results. The comparative changes of basic anthropometric parameters in the experimental groups of athletes versus the control groups show: increase of body mass at the age of 16 and 17; increase of height at the age of 15 and 16; insignificant changes of BMI, all subjects being normal weight; increase of sitting height, arm span, chest elasticity and abdominal circumference at the age of 16, 17 and 18 compared to values corresponding to 15, 16, 17 years of age; increase in bitrochanteric diameter at the age of 15 and 16. Conclusions. The changes of basic anthropometric parameters in junior handball players can be considered as adaptive changes determined by specific physical training and maturation, and they should be taken into account for the tertiary selection of athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Physical activity is indispensable in the elderly. Institutionalized elderly people frequently present depression, which can be treated with the help of the physical, psychical and social benefits of a regular physical exercise program. Aims. The institutionalized elderly were evaluated for depression, physical activity and its benefits. Methods. The research was carried out on two groups of institutionalized elderly people, men and women, with an average age of more than 73 years. We determined the physical activity index, depression index and cognitive functions based on the Mini Mental State Examination. Results. Our results showed a higher depression score when the physical activity index was lower and a higher MMSE score when the physical activity index was higher. Conclusions. Physical activity of institutionalized elderly people has beneficial anti-iatrogenic effects, fighting depression and iatrogenic illnesses due to institutionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]