Correlation Between Propulsive Velocity, Maximum Velocity, and Power and the 2D:4D Ratio in Paralympic Powerlifting Athletes

Abstract

Background: Among the strength sports we have Paralympic powerlifting, and the factors that influence strength have been investigated; among them is the relationship between strength and the ratio of the size of the second and fourth fingers of the hand (2D:4D).

Objectives: The study is aimed at evaluating the relationship between the 2D:4D finger length ratio and the dynamic strength indicators, mean propulsive velocity (MPV), maximum velocity (Vmax), and power, with loads of 45% and 80% of one repetition maximum (1RM), in Paralympic powerlifting.

Methodology: Sixteen elite Paralympic powerlifting athletes were evaluated for dynamic strength indicators, MPV, Vmax, and power, with loads of 45% and 80% 1RM. The 2D:4D proportions and correlations between the indicators were evaluated of 2D:2D ratios and dynamic strength indicators.

Results: Moderate correlations were found between MPV 45% and 4D (r = 0.551, p = 0.027), between MPV 45% and R-L 2D:4D diff. (r = −0.595, p = 0.015), between power 80% and L2 (r = 0.542, p = 0.030), and between MPV 45% and R-L 2D:4D (r = −0.585, p = 0.017). There was also a moderate correlation between power 80% left 2D (r = −0.542, p = 0.030). However, no correlation was found between the 2D:4D ratios and dynamic strength indicators in Paralympic powerlifting.

Conclusion: The 2D:4D ratio presents a moderate correlation with dynamic strength indicators in Paralympic powerlifting athletes, where the ratios with the velocity of 45 of 1RM can be used as a predictor but with caution.