The Systematic Review of Understanding the Relationship Between Mesomorph and Speed in Sports: A PRISMA 2020 Analysis

Abstract

The relationship between mesomorph body type and speed in sports is a complex and multifaceted area of research. This systematic literature review aimed to explore the connection between somatotypes and speed variations, focusing on the biomechanical factors that enhance speed in mesomorphic athletes and the role of the skeletomuscular system in speed-related activities. Following PRISMA 2020 standards, a structured internet search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and COPE (UK), yielding 1,275 research articles. After applying inclusion/exclusion criteria and quality screening, 27 articles were selected for review, with 10 articles thoroughly analysed. The findings revealed that mesomorphic athletes, characterized by their muscular and athletic build, often possess physical attributes that contribute to enhanced speed performance, such as a higher muscle-to-fat ratio, efficient metabolism, and a larger proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibres. However, factors such as training, technique, nutrition, and mental preparation also play significant roles in determining an athlete's overall speed performance. The review highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between body type and speed for optimizing sports-specific strategies, talent selection, and training plans. Furthermore, the findings have broader applications in fitness and rehabilitation programs. Future research should focus on investigating the interplay between somatotype, biomechanical factors, and skeletomuscular characteristics to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between mesomorph body type and speed in sports.