The practical implications of weekly sports camps for improving the somatic, motor, and psychomotor characteristics of volleyball players (longitudinal data).

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the relationship between a week-long sports camp and changes in the somatic and motor characteristics of volleyball players aged 17.98±0.51 years. Potential changes in the participants' somatic characteristics were determined by bioelectrical impedance. The players' motor and psychomotor abilities were assessed (tests: reaction time, grip strength dynamometer, 5 x 20 s interval motor on a rowing ergometer, vertical, approach and standing long jumps). A decrease was observed in body fat mass (difference of 1.0 kg, p = 0.015), percent body fat (difference of 1.16 %, p = 0.008), and the waist-to-hip ratio (difference of 0.02, p = 0.001). An increase was noted in total body water (difference of 1.0 L, p = 0.002), proteins (difference of 0.33 kg, p = 0.001), minerals (difference of 0.12 kg, p = 0.003), fat-free mass (difference of 1.46 kg, p = 0.001), and skeletal muscle mass (difference of 0.9 kg, p = 0.001). In the group of motor abilities, a significant increase was observed only in the grip strength of the left hand. Sports camps can significantly affect the body composition characteristics of volleyball players, but they do not induce significant changes in their motor or psychomotor abilities.