Lower limb asymmetry of club level Muay Thai athletes

To the author’s knowledge this is the first investigation to determine anthropometric and total-body composition characteristics using a Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry three-compartment model of Muay Thai athletes in comparison with age-matched individuals. Anthropometric information was obtained for both dominant and non-dominant legs. Lean mass, fat mass, and bone mineral content characteristics were identified. Dynamic muscular strength was assessed for force asymmetry identification via countermovement jump on two force platforms for each limb and single leg countermovement jump. Strength asymmetry was calculated using Symmetry angle formula [45o - arctan (Left / Right)) / 90o x 100]. Results revealed that Muay Thai athletes were significantly taller (p<0.05),with small effect size (d=0.62),possessed significantly higher lean mass percentage in lower limbs (78.1±3.9 vs. 73.7±3.2), with moderate effect (d=0.8). Fat mass percentage of lower extremities was significantly higher in controls (21.5±3.5 vs. 17.1±4), with moderate effect (d=-0.75) indication. Body fat percentage was significantly lower in Muay Thai athletes (17.7±4.3 vs. 22.9±4.1) with moderate effect (d=-1.12). Muay Thai athletes showed a significantly greater difference in leg bone mineral content than controls (p=0.038) with moderate effect obtained (d=0.92). Moderate effect was obtained between dominant (d=0.94) and non-dominant (d=1.08) limb peak force from double leg counter-movement jump ,but statistical significance was not reached. Muay Thai athletes possess significantly greater peak force in both, dominant (d=1.97) and non-dominant (d=1.41) extremities with large effect sizes. Peak force asymmetry was higher in Muay Thai athletes with small effect (d=0.29) for SLCMJ and moderate effect for CMJ (d=0.85). Three Muay Thai athletes were considered ‘’high risk of injury’’ using cut of at 10% asymmetry, though none of the controls were considered to be in high risk of injury. These data points may provide strength and conditioning professionals with deeper understanding of Muay Thai as a sport and might help with developing between-limb symmetry training programmes.