Sport Mont | 2026
Authors: Hedbávný P.; Kalichová M.
DOI: 10.26773/smj.260614
Journal: Sport Mont
Year: 2026
Publisher: Montenegrin Sports Academy
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Cited by: 0
Artistic gymnastics requires a specific morphological profile characterized by high muscle mass and low body fat. Understanding body composition in elite gymnasts is essential for optimizing performance and guiding specialization. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to describe the body composition characteristics of current elite male artistic gymnasts competing at the international level, and to compare all-around gymnasts with upper-body and lower-body specialists, while also analyzing the variability of selected anthropometric and bioelectrical parameters. Thirty-one elite male artistic gymnasts were assessed using a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer (InBody 770). Basic anthropometric data, whole-body and segmental composition, somatotype indices, and phase angle were evaluated. Athletes were divided into four subgroups: all-around, floor and vault specialists, pommel horse specialists, and ring specialists. Based on somatotype classification, the gymnasts demonstrated a homogeneous mesomorphic profile with high fat-free and skeletal muscle mass and low body fat percentage. Significant inter-group differences were observed in BMI, obesity degree, hip and thigh circumferences, and age (p<0.05). Floor and vault specialists had higher BMI (24.3 vs. 22.2 kg/m²) and larger thigh circumferences (52.4 vs. 49.0 cm) than pommel horse specialists, while ring specialists were older (28.0 vs. 20.0 years) than other groups. Segmental analysis provided additional insight into the distribution of fat-free and fat mass and phase angle in the limbs. Elite male artistic gymnasts exhibit a consistent mesomorphic body type with event-specific adaptations reflecting the biomechanical and functional demands of each apparatus. The inclusion of segmental analysis and non-parametric variability indices adds methodological value and enhances understanding of morphological characteristics in elite gymnastics. These results may serve as reference data for athlete monitoring, selection, and training optimization. © 2026, Montenegrin Sports Academy. All rights reserved.