Endomorphs Show Higher Postural Sway Than Other Somatotypes Subjects

The somatotype may influence the balance control ability. The quality of balance performance is an important factor to prevent injuries during sport activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of somatotype on the static and dynamic balance indices as well as falling risk index. A total of 141 university student healthy young females were recruited. We measured anthropometric somatotypes (10 parameters, Heath-Carter’s method) and the mean of center of pressure (COP) displacement on a Biodex balance system during unilateral (static balance indices) and bilateral standing (dynamic balance indices) with their eyes open and eyes closed. In this research, the frequency of somatotypes was as follows: endomorph, 51; mesomorph, 43; and ectomorph, 47. During dynamic tests, the endomorph group showed significantly higher COP sway (P < 0.01) and falling risk index (P < 0.05) than other somatotype groups did. The mesomorph group showed significantly better postural control during dynamic balance control test with eyes closed (P < 0.05) in comparison to the other somatotype groups. The mesomorph subjects had a higher degree of static and dynamic balance control, while a lower degree of balance control was found among endomorph subjects, especially when standing on the unlocked balance platform with both eyes open and eyes closed.