Predictor variables for success in college wrestling.

Abstract

Research involving a wrestler's success in competition is limited. Understanding the physiological attributes that a successful wrestler must exhibit will help coaches and wrestlers develop effective and efficient philosophies and training programs. The purpose of this study was to examine if there are attributes of male NCAA Division II collegiate wrestlers that can predict success in the form of competitive wins during the season. Participants were tested on five physiological attributes: percent weight change (preseason to in-season), anaerobic work capacity, shot velocity, lower body power, and handgrip strength. A multiple regression statistic generated a correlation matrix for the independent variables and dependent variable. The results showed only one independent variable (percent change in weight) correlated significantly (F = 9.402 and p = .037) with the dependent variable (percent wins). Additionally, 70.2% of the influence in changed body mass predicted success in wrestling (r = 0.838, r2 = 0.702). These relationships imply that wrestlers who gained mass were more likely to win compared to those who did not. The researcher concluded that future research should test a larger and broader population of wrestlers, examining percent body fat and hydration levels, in addition to body mass measurements, as well as consider testing wrestlers throughout the season. Knowledge of the neurological and physiological strengths of successful wrestlers at all weight classes could better help coaches and trainers enhance physiological attributes and skills.