ASSOCIATION BETWEEN LOWER EXTREMITY KINEMATICS AND HORIZONTAL JUMP PERFORMANCE

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between lower extremity anthropometric parameters and the quadriceps angle in relation to horizontal jump performance in healthy young adults. Ninety-six healthy young adults (52 females and 44 males, aged 18-30 years), participating in no regular sports activity, were included. Measurements of lower extremity length, thigh length, leg length, foot length, hip circumference, and waist circumference were taken in centimeters using a non-elastic tape measure in an upright position. The quadriceps angle was measured with a goniometer, and horizontal jump performance was assessed via the standing broad jump test. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 29.00. A significant negative correlation was found between the quadriceps angle (both legs) and hip circumference, waist circumference, foot length, and horizontal jump distance. The quadriceps angle of the right leg also negatively correlated with lower extremity, thigh, and leg lengths. Horizontal jump distance positively correlated with lower extremity, thigh, leg, and foot lengths. Longer lower extremity, thigh, leg, and foot lengths enhance horizontal jump performance, while an increased quadriceps angle reduces it. These results highlight the quadriceps angle as a critical factor in horizontal jump performance, warranting further research.

Keywords: anthropometry, quadriceps angle, standing broad jump test