BACKGROUND: Despite some knowledge about the fitness levels of elite surfers, there is limited published research examining gender differences, particularly in young athletes. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the sex differences in physical performance characteristics of elite youth surfers. It was also aimed to study the association between physical performance variables. METHODS: This longitudinal prospective study was based on a total of twenty male and female youth surfers who performed a battery of physical performance tests: anthropometrics, weight-bearing dorsiflexion test, Functional Movement Screen, lower extremity dynamic stability, lower limb dynamic strength, paddling and apnea test. The magnitude of differences between male and female surfers was tested and also the percentage of difference between performances. RESULTS: When testing the correlation between the anthropometric and physical fitness variables and between performance variables, males and females presented specific intra sex results that should be interpreted by surf coaches. CONCLUSIONS: Concerning better performance, working with young surfing athletes body composition have to be managed and the development of lower limb dynamic strength, especially for girl younger surfers. Supplementary it seems that Star Excursion Balance Test when compared bilaterally, can be a time efficiency indicator of the influence of surf training on the magnitude of lower limb asymmetry and postural control. In this way, surf coaches working with young athletes can implement appropriate and adjust training interventions.
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