Introduction:

Basketball has been the object of many studies, including assessments based on current technologies such as bioimpedance.

Objective:

Compare the asymmetry indices (AI) for upper and lower limbs in university basketball players.

Methods:

An evaluation was conducted of 24 basketball players from different competitive levels, representing 1) the university (n = 12) and 2) the school (n = 12). Determination was made of arm and leg circumference, as well as lean mass and fat by bioimpedance. The lower and upper limb asymmetry index was estimated and compared between the competitive levels.

Results:

Comparison of the arms and legs asymmetry indices in the total group revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) as to fat mass, with greater adiposity in the upper limbs and an asymmetry index of 10.8. Comparison of the same variables between the sports levels found that players representing the university displayed higher values (p < 0.05) in the asymmetry index for total mass, circumferences, lean mass and fat mass. Comparison between the groups found differences in the arm vs. leg asymmetry indices for lean mass in both groups (p < 0.05), whereas the school players also showed differences for fat, with an asymmetry index of 18.3 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Regardless of the sports level, different asymmetry indices are found between upper and lower limbs as to fat mass, though smaller asymmetry index values were characteristic of individuals from a higher sports level.

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