Anthropometric and Physiological Characteristics of Young Elite Hungarian Motocross Riders in Motocross Competitions

Abstract

Background

Motocross riders’ performance is highly dependent on the characteristics of the motorcycles and the skills of the riders, and the actual environmental conditions. This study aims to describe the differences in anthropometric and physiological characteristics between internationally ranked adolescent males and nationally ranked motorcross (MX) peer competitors; Methods: Data obtained from young riders (n=14) were divided into internationally ranked G1 (n=5) and - nationally ranked G2 (n=9) young MX riders. We determined body composition and cardiorespiratory variables, and measured heart rate and movement-related data with Polar Team Pro system during the race; (3) Results: Blood lactate concentrations were evaluated before and after the race session. MX riders with an international ranking performed significantly better during both races (R1 and R2), which manifested itself in significantly shorter times per lap on average (difference for R1=14.8 s and for R2=16.7 s, respectively, p=0.017), more laps completed (G1 vs G2 approx.: 11.2 : 9.9 laps for R1 and R2, p=0.019) and points scored (difference: R1=9.3 pts and R2=9.0 pts, p=0.014). There were no statistically significant differences in age between the two compared groups (p=0.559) and other anthropometric and physiological characteristics tested, with an exception of muscle mass percent (p<0.001); Conclusions: Current results showed that motocross probably places a heavy burden on riders, who need to be fit enough to maintain their position in the field.