1*Ph.D Scholar, Department of Physical Education, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, India
Email: groverjigyasa30@gmail.com
2Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Education, Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, India
Email: rajwinderkaur0567@gmail.com
Received: 14th Sep, 2025; Revised: 25th Oct, 2025; Accepted: 16th Nov, 2025; Available Online: 1st December, 2025
Anthropometric characteristics play a critical role in athlete profiling, particularly in combat sports such as Taekwondo, where body composition can influence performance, agility and strength. This study aimed to compare selected anthropometric characteristics and body composition variables of Punjab male Taekwondo players across Inter-College and National competitive levels and to examine trends in these variables with increasing levels of participation. A total of 64 male athletes (32 Inter-College, 32 National) aged 18–25 years were assessed for body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage and skinfold thickness at six sites using standardized protocols and Harpenden skinfold callipers. Independent samples t-tests were employed to evaluate differences between groups and trend analysis was performed to examine patterns associated with competitive level. Results indicated no significant differences in body weight, height or BMI between the two groups. In contrast, body fat percentage and all measured skinfold thickness variables demonstrated a significant progressive decrease from Inter-College to National level players. The findings suggest that body composition, rather than general body size, distinguishes higher-level Taekwondo players and highlights leanness as a defining characteristic of elite performance. These results provide practical guidance for athlete monitoring, training program design, and talent development in regional and national Taekwondo contexts.
Keywords: Taekwondo, body composition, skinfold thickness, anthropometry, athlete profiling, competitive level.
How to cite this article: Grover J, Kaur R. Comparison of Anthropometric Characteristics of Punjab Male Taekwondo Players across Competitive Levels. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(1): 727-730; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.1.76
Source of support: None
Conflict of interest: None