The Role of the Specific Strength Test in Handball Performance: Exploring Differences across Competitive Levels and Age Groups

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine if specific physical tests are sufficiently discriminant to differentiate players of similar anthropometric characteristics, but of different playing levels. Physical tests were conducted analyzing specific strength, throwing velocity, and running speed tests. Thirty-six male junior handball players (n = 36; age 19.7 ± 1.8 years; 185.6 ± 6.9 cm; 83.1 ± 10.3 kg; 10.6 ± 3.2 years of experience) from two different levels of competition participated in the study: NT = 18 were world top-level elite players, belonging to the Spanish junior men’s national team (National Team = NT) and A = 18 players of the same age and anthropometric conditions, who were selected from Spanish third league men’s teams (Amateur = A). The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two groups in all physical tests, except for two-step-test velocity and shoulder internal rotation. We conclude that a battery combining the Specific Performance Test and the Force Development Standing Test is useful in identifying talent and differentiating between elite and sub-elite players. The current findings suggest that running speed tests and throwing tests are essential in selecting players, regardless of age, sex, or type of competition. The results shed light on the factors that differentiate players of different levels and can help coaches in selecting players.

Differences in the Anthropometric Measurements and Performance Tests of Qatari First Division Handball Players Depending on Position

“…It is widely reported that anthropometry is an important variable for optim mance in team handball. Moreover, anthropometry is known to differ between play [37]. Although certain characteristics, such as total body mass, may be be some playing positions in handball, it may only be advantageous in one positi displayed the lowest body mass and Pivots were the players with the largest a body fat.…”

Body Part Pain Affects Subjective and Objective Handball Performance in Japanese Male National Athletes—Results of Short-Term Practical Monitoring of Athletes’ Conditions

“…This study aimed to investigate how pain in various body parts affects subjective and objective handball performance during an actual training camp of a Japanese male national team. In general, a national team consists of a few selected elite players [ 15 ]. In addition, these athletes train at high intensity and prepare for international matches within a short preparation period, making it extremely difficult to establish a long and stable survey period.…”

Test–Retest Reliability of an Isometric and Isometric/Vibratory Muscular Strength Protocol with Functional Electro-Mechanical Dynamometry

“…Equipment reliability testing is necessary due to the increasing popularity of isometric testing as a means of determining maximum strength and the ability to apply peak force in the shortest possible time [10]. It is crucial to employ evaluations that can distinguish between different types of analytical advancements in force creation when measuring force [11]. When it comes to training and assessing the kinetic variables of power, speed, and strength of various human movements [12], as well as the various forms of muscular contraction and strength manifestations in free, mono-, or multi-joint movement of the entire body [13], functional electromechanical dynamometry (FEMD) is a perfect tool.…”