Anthropometric Characteristics, Maximal Isokinetic Strength and Selected Handball Power Indicators Are Specific to Playing Positions in Elite Kosovan Handball Players

Abstract

Anthropometric characteristics and physical performance are closely related to the game demands of each playing position. This study aimed to first examine the differences between playing positions in anthropometric characteristics and physical performance with special emphasis on the isokinetic strength of elite male handball players, and secondly to examine the correlations of the latter variables with ball velocity. Anthropometric characteristics, maximal isokinetic strength, sprinting and vertical jumping performance, and ball velocity in the set shot and jump shot were obtained from 93 elite handball players (age 22 ± 5 years, height 184 ± 8 cm, and weight 84 ± 14 kg) pre-season. Wing players were shorter compared to other players, and pivots were the heaviest. Wings had the fastest 20 m sprints, and, along with backcourt players, jumped higher, had better maximal knee isometric strength, and achieved the highest ball velocity compared to pivots and goalkeepers, respectively. There were no significant differences between playing positions in unilateral and bilateral maximal leg strength imbalances. Ball velocity was significantly correlated with height, weight, squat jump and maximal torque of extensors and flexors. Our study suggest that shooting success is largely determined by the player’s height, weight, muscle strength and power, while it seems that anthropometric characteristics and physical performance are closely related to the game demands of each playing position.

Differences in anthropometric variables and muscle strength in relation to competitive level in male handball players

“…Our result was confirmed by the results obtained in tests assessing the explosive strength of lower limbs of handball players, such as squat jump and countermovement jump [ 30 ]. The results of previous studies suggest that motor skills, especially muscle strength (hand grip, trunk extensors and flexors) are important determinants of throwing velocity in handball [ 31 , 32 ]. However, it should be mentioned that the isometric test used in this study is not the optimal method for evaluating a dynamic activity, such as throwing in handball and, as a result, may not accurately assess the potential performance of the muscles involved [ 33 ].…”

Effect of somatotype on the general physical fitness tests and throwing velocity on handball

“…Our results exhibited a positive correlation between the mesomorphic component and ball velocity. The study by Havolli et al 40 on elite handball players concluded that more muscle mass in the lower and upper limbs manifests in better shooting performance and muscle power. Several studies in handball show a correlation of (r > 0.60) between muscle power and shot speed 39 .…”

Special Issue on “Sports Performance and Health”

“…Concerning the submission area (iii), i.e., the optimization of sports performance by training, technique and/or tactics enhancements, the study by Smajla et al [6] investigated elbow extensors and volar flexors strength in basketball players, and demonstrated significant associations between strength and shooting performance, particularly for longdistance shooting. Havolli et al [7] reported the anthropometric characteristics, maximal isokinetic strength and selected handball power as indicators that are specific to playing position in elite Kosovan handball players. In fact, the study found that shooting success is largely determined by the player's height, weight, muscle strength and power, while it seems that anthropometric characteristics and physical performance are closely related to the game demands of each playing position.…”