COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MORPHOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN URBAN AND RURAL ATHLETES IN KARAKALPAKSTAN
Keywords:
Urban athletes, rural athletes, Karakalpakstan, morphological development, functional development, anthropometry, physical fitness, physiological adaptation.Abstract
This study investigates the differences in morphological and functional development between urban and rural athletes living in Karakalpakstan. The research focuses on key anthropometric indicators (height, weight, limb circumference), body composition (fat and lean mass), and physiological functions (cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular performance). A total of 90 athletes aged 16–25 years, equally divided between urban and rural areas and across different sports categories (endurance, strength, mixed), were assessed. Results reveal that rural athletes tend to have superior respiratory capacity, lower body fat percentages, and greater muscular endurance, while urban athletes show slightly better neuromuscular coordination and flexibility. Environmental conditions, physical workload, nutritional habits, and lifestyle are found to be key contributors to the observed differences. The study highlights the importance of accounting for residential environment in athlete development programs in Karakalpakstan.References
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