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Context: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 8-week ballistic-strength-training program using a validated specific throwing device (ie, Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device), on isokinetic shoulders' rotation muscle-torques and ratios as well as range of motion in team handball players. Design: A repeated-measures experimental design with a randomized controlled trial was used. Methods: Twenty-six high-level competitive male U-19 team handball players were randomly assigned into training (TG, n = 15) and control (n = 11) groups. The TG undertook a twice a week for 8-week periodized throws program with an individually predetermined optimal load. The program incorporated shackled eccentric and concentric exercises using the Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device. Peak torques, functional, and conventional ratios for both arms at different angular velocities (60°·s−1, 180°·s−1, and 300°·s−1) were assessed over time and between groups, using an isokinetic dynamometer. Results: A significant improvement for TG (P <.01; d = 1.13 [moderate]; +20.2%) of the concentric peak torques for dominant arm in external rotation was observed at 300°·s−1. Significant (P <.05–.01) increases were also noted for nondominant arm at the 3 studied angular velocities. In addition, 300°·s−1 eccentric peak torques of the dominant arm and nondominant arm have significantly improved for both external and internal rotations (P <.05; d =.99 [moderate] and d = 1.21 [large]; +15.7% and + 17.9%, respectively) with small changes at the other angular assessed velocities. Posttraining, TG's dominant arm showed significant improvements (P <.05–.01) in functional and conventional ratios at all velocities. Notably, significant differences (P <.05–.01) were observed at 60°·s−1 and across all velocities when comparing the TG with the control group. TG showed significant increase for internal rotation and external rotation shoulder range of motions (P <.05; d = 1.22–1.27 [large]), +5.0% and +7.7%, respectively). Conclusions: The specific 8-week throwing training program on the Arm/Shoulder Specific Strength Device showed significant performance improvements in almost all assessed isokinetic concentric and eccentric peak torques as well as internal and external range of motion increase for both arms while ensuring rotator cuff torque ratios and shoulder mobility in team handball real sport-specific condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the standard Yo-Yo intermittent recovery (IR) test and an agility Yo-Yo IR test with a higher number of change-of-direction movements to cardiorespiratory match performance. Methods: The study included 11 professional male handball players (age 24.5 [4.6] y) of a German second-league team. The performance parameters of the players of the seasons 2016–17 to 2018–19 were analyzed. The Yo-Yo IR test was compared to a Yo-Yo IR test with multiple multidirectional changes of direction in response to visual stimuli, which was conducted on a SpeedCourt (Yo-Yo SC IR). Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and maximum heart rate (HRmax) were measured. Between-methods differences of individual athletes were quantified with Bland–Altman plots. Results: HRmax was not statistically different during the Yo-Yo SC IR test compared to the Yo-Yo IR test (181 [10] vs 188 [8] beats·min−1; P =.16). Agreement between the 2 tests was moderate for HRmax and good for heart rates >180 beats·min−1. Mean average VO2peak was 51.7 (3.9) and 50.9 (2.8) mL·min–1·kg–1 for the Yo-Yo SC IR test and the Yo-Yo IR test (P =.693), respectively. Conclusions: A Yo-Yo test with multidirectional changes of direction in response to visual stimuli yielded good agreement with the frequently used linear running tests and can be used to assess players' VO2peak. The HRmax achieved during this test should be used with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between items of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale (SRSS) related to physical stress and recovery and the biomarker creatine kinase (CK) in professional handball. Methods: CK and SRSS items (physical performance capability, overall recovery, muscular stress, and overall stress) were assessed in an observational study of 16 adult male professional handball players from a team in the highest German league during the 2019–20 preseason. Their preseason training schedule included several microcycles, each consisting of 3 consecutive days of intense training followed by a rest day. On 5 of these rest days, when players were classified as nonrested, and the 5 immediately following days, when players were classified as rested, players completed the SRSS between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, followed by blood sampling. Correlations between SRSS items were performed using Kendall τ. The relationship between each SRSS item and CK levels over time was examined using a mixed-effects model with a random intercept. Results: CK levels and SRSS stress items were significantly higher and SRSS recovery items were significantly lower in nonrested players. SRSS items were significantly positively or negatively correlated (all items: P <.001) and showed a significant effect indicating lower CK levels in rested players (all items: P ≤.001; η p 2 =.1 −.32). Conclusions: The investigated SRSS items may be a viable option for assessing muscle recovery in adult male professional handball players in a cost-effective and noninvasive manner. They can be used as a single monitoring tool or as part of a multimodal approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The designation of Diego Maradona's 'handball' goal, that it was an intervention by God himself, brings the phenomena of sport and religion into an interrelationship. The basic thesis of this paper is that, despite many of their phenomenal similarities, explicit religion is not, and cannot be, substantially related to sport, as the two manifest themselves in different ways of being. This thesis is supported by arguments from three philosophical areas: 1. The ontological dimension of the manifestation of the sacred in the profane through the process of hierophany in sport does not refer to a specific deity or God, and is therefore not a presentation but an indirect representation of the sacred; 2. The epistemological perspective of the intentional relation of consciousness to religious ritual justifies the necessity of situating them in an overall horizon of references and meanings to the horizon of the lifeworld; 3. The existential and experiential aspects of transformative sport experiences transform the horizon of meanings of empirical reality, but lack the sacramental perspective. Implicit religion as a possibility of transition on a continuum of complementary existential states is a suitable explicative framework for analyzing the phenomenal similarities and essential differences of religion and sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: This meta-analysis systematically evaluates the influence of small-sided game (SSG) on the counter-movement jump (CMJ) height and 20-meter sprint capabilities of handball players. Methods: Systematic searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI) databases were performed up to February 2024. Results: A total of 8 studies with 184 participants were included. Meta-analysis demonstrated significant improvements in CMJ (cm) in handball players (Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) = −1.06, 95% CI[−1.99, −0.12], Z = 2.22, P = 0.03). For the 20 m sprint capability, the results were WMD = −0.07, 95% CI[−0.14, 0.01], Z = 1.82, P = 0.07. Subgroup analysis by age: ≥19 years old WMD = −0.02, 95% CI[−0.08, 0.03], and <19 years old WMD = −0.10, 95% CI[−0.21, 0.00], indicating no significant impact on the 20-m (s) performance improvement. Gender subgroup analysis showed male WMD = −0.01, 95% CI[−0.08,0.07] and female WMD = −0.11, 95%CI[−0.19, −0.03; P < 0.05], suggesting better improvement in females. Conclusion: The present study reveals that SSG training has varying impacts on 20 m sprint performance among handball players of different ages and genders. Specifically, there is no significant improvement in the 20 m sprint performance between players aged <19 and ≥19, while female players show greater improvement in the 20-m (s) compared to male players. These differences could be attributed to the physiological, psychological, and adaptive training differences between athletes of different ages and genders. Although SSG plays an essential role in training handball players, particularly in enhancing lower limb explosive strength and overall game performance, it is recommended to combine SSG with other targeted strength and explosive power training to maximize the enhancement of lower limb explosive power in handball players. Comprehensive training can effectively improve the lower limb explosive strength of athletes while also addressing the development of other key athletic qualities to achieve the best training outcomes. Therefore, coaches should fully consider the individual differences and training needs of athletes when designing training plans, and reasonably allocate the proportion and sequence of SSG with other training methods to maximize training effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Currently, there is little research on successful talent development environments (TDEs) focusing on women and girls. In response, the main aim of the present study was to compare TDEs of age‐specific national teams for girls and boys in the Norwegian context (N = 216: 92 girls and 124 boys). Gender differences were investigated in the two different sports of handball and ice hockey, which in the Norwegian context represent more and less successful sports (handball and ice hockey, respectively). Before investigating gender differences in the two sports, a necessary first step was to investigate the psychometric properties of Norwegian version of the Talent Development Environment Questionnaire (TDEQ‐5). Results support the Norwegian TDEQ‐5 to be a reliable and valid measure within the Norwegian context. The successful sport of Norwegian handball showed no significant gender differences regarding TDE. The less successful and male dominated sport of Norwegian ice hockey showed girls to score lower on several TDEQ factors compared to boys. Results also showed ice hockey having lower TDEQ scores compared to handball. We argue that handball provide similarly functional TDEs for girls and boys, making gender equality a characteristic feature of a TDE that is successful both in terms of mass participation and international achievements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the acute effect of kinesiology taping in the triceps surae, which has the key role in jumping, of handball players on ankle plantar and dorsiflexion muscle strength, proprioception, balance, horizontal jumping and functional movement. Methods: It is a double-blinded, randomised placebo-controlled study. There were two groups in the study: the experimental group was applied 'Y shaped' kinesiology taping on triceps surae, based on facilitation technique with 25–50% stretch. The control (placebo) group was applied kinesiology taping on triceps surae without any stretch. Participants' muscle strength, proprioception, balance, horizontal jumping and functional movement was measured before and 2 h after taping. Results: Kinesiology taping applied to the triceps surae had an acute effect on the right foot dorsiflexion muscle strength (experimental:4.9 ± 5.8, control: − 0.4 ± 3.4, p:0.02). Statistically significant differences were found between the experimental and control groups in proprioception of the right foot in 25° plantar flexion with eyes open (experiment: − 2.72 ± 4.14, control:0.6 ± 2.75, p:0.04) and the right foot in 10° dorsiflexion with eyes closed (experiment: − 3.72 ± 4.14, control: − 0. 5 ± 1.58, p:0.03); players with kinesiology taping had better sense of proprioception than those with placebo taping. No significant differences were found in balance, horizontal jumping and functional movement between the experimental and the control groups. Conclusion: Kinesiology taping may provide an acute effect on the dorsiflexion muscle strength of handball players and can help to maintain ankle joint position. Kinesiology taping over triceps surae did not enhance balance, horizontal jumping or functional movement. Large randomised controlled trials could provide more definitive evidence. Trial Registration Number and Date: NCT05691946 and 19 January 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformational leadership in sports is generally associated with positive athlete outcomes. The Transformational Coaching Workshop was developed as a person-oriented workshop to enhance youth sport experiences. However, evidence of participants' perceptions of the workshop and how it may be improved is lacking. This study investigated coaches' perceptions of the Transformational Coaching Workshop, its outcomes and applications, and areas for improvement. Youth handball coaches were interviewed immediately (n = 10) and 6 months (n = 5) after participating in the Transformational Coaching Workshop, and the club's sporting director was interviewed 6 months following the workshop. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis. Overall, the workshop was well received by the coaches, highlighting the importance of a coach development program on the interpersonal aspect of coaching, and pinpointing relevant and practical examples and interactive learning experiences as effective components of the workshop. Furthermore, the workshop made the coaches more confident in their approach to leadership and provided tools and ideas for implementing transformational leadership in their daily coaching practices. It was also perceived to lead to actual behaviour changes, including challenging the players to take more responsibilities and fostering more frequent informal interactions and counselling with them. However, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Transformational Coaching Workshop, additional follow-up activities such as seminars, colleague observations, and club involvement were recommended. In conclusion, this study contributes to the existing literature on the potential efficacy of the Transformational Coaching Workshop while identifying areas for further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Throwing velocity is an important research topic in sports science, and it is an essential performance variable for athletes in overarm-throwing sports like baseball, team handball, water polo, softball, and cricket. The aim of the present review was to investigate the effect of specific strength training on throwing velocity for overarm throws. Methods: The literature was analysed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses, searching in SPORTDiscus and MEDLINE. Seventeen studies were included in this review, and the training studies were divided into four categories: (a) overweight and underweight balls, (b) forearm loading, (c) pulley device training, and (d) strength training with a resistance band. Results: All strength training studies with resistance band and the forearm loading categories increased the throwing velocity, varying from 3.7 to 26%. However, only half of these studies found that training was associated with a significantly higher increase versus the control group. Findings were inconsistent in other categories. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present review, no clear conclusion can be made on which of the specific strength training methods is best for increasing throwing velocity. However, some recommendations can be offered. Firstly, the throwing training period should be long enough (≥ 6 weeks) with a high enough workload. Throwing training with a resistance band increases throwing velocity significantly for junior and less experienced overarm-throwing athletes. Furthermore, throwing with underweighted balls of similar size will ensure a positive effect on throwing velocity. Also, throwing training with combined over- and underweighted balls can be used if the overweighted balls are carefully selected to ensure there is no negative impact on throwing kinematics and injuries. For the other categories, the results were conflicting. Furthermore, due to the low number of studies in the pulley device and forearm loading categories, more studies should be conducted to investigate their effects on throwing velocity. Key Points: • All strength training studies with resistance band and the forearm loading categories increased the throwing velocity, varying from 3.7 to 26%. • Only half of these studies found that training was associated with a significantly higher increase versus the control group, while findings were inconsistent in other categories. • Due to the low number of studies in the pulley device and forearm loading categories, more studies should be conducted to investigate their effects on throwing velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aimed to assess the effects of exercise training on handball players' performance. A thorough search was conducted in 5 online databases (ProQuest, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost (SPORTDiscus), as well as on Google Scholar and other gray literature references starting on April 11, 2022. The methodological quality of the included research was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. This systematic review includes 16 studies. Eight studies received "excellent" ratings ($6 points), 5 received "good" ratings (5 points), and 3 received "moderate" ratings (4 points). The findings showed that the most frequently examined performance factors in exercise training intervention strategies with handball players were balance (n 5 5), agility (n 5 8), speed (n 5 9), and jumping performance (n 5 10). Muscular strength (n 5 4), shooting and dribbling skill (n 5 3), and muscular endurance (n 5 4) were the second most frequently investigated performance factors. Regarding speed and agility, exercise training considerably improved the physical fitness of handball players. However, evidence related to muscular strength, shooting ability, and dribbling skills was limited. To achieve the optimum standard, handball players must have strong physical and physiological qualities. Meanwhile, no evidence was found related to the impacts of exercise training on power, endurance, flexibility, body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Regarding limitations, there is a need for more research with solid evidence to determine the impacts of exercise training interventions on athletes' performance in handball. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: This paper aims to investigate the impact of proprioceptive exercises on postural control in handball players with chronic ankle instability. Methods: The research participants (n = 22) were divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 11) and the control group (n = 11). Chronic ankle instability was diagnosed using the Identification of Functional Ankle Instability (IdFAI) questionnaire, while postural control was evaluated with the Iso-Shift stabilometric platform. The intervention consisted of a 15-week proprioceptive exercise program, with sessions performed three times a week. The rehabilitation protocol was conducted at the start of each training session, immediately following the warm-up. Results: The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon and Mann–Whitney U tests. Both groups improved their score on the Identification of Functional Ankle Instability (IdFAI) questionnaire (IdFAI_CG, p < 0.011; IdFAI_EG, p < 0.003) and reduced the number of ankle sprains (NS_EG, p < 0.008). Also, the experimental group had better results for the following tests: ellipse area with open eyes on the left leg (EA_I–OE_L, p < 0.009), ellipse area with closed eyes on the left leg (EA_I–CE_L, p < 0.033), anteroposterior deviation with open eyes on the left leg (APD_I–OE_L, p < 0.023), and the initial and final number of ankle sprains (NS_I, p < 0.01; NS_F, p < 0.024). Conclusions: Athletes who suffer from chronic joint instability are more likely to experience severe postural deviations than those who do not have this condition. Proprioceptive exercises had a positive impact on postural control in both groups, but the experimental group showed a greater improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to record shoulder and trunk stability of elite female handball players and to investigate their effect on throwing velocity and accuracy. 151 female handball players (9 teams in total) from the Hungarian first league participated in a mid-season conditional survey. The study included tests of trunk and shoulder stability, and measurements of factors affecting shoulder stability, as well as throwing speed and throwing accuracy. After the conditional survey, 18 players were selected for the intervention group (IG) and 18 players for the control group (CG). Significant relationships were found between the medial stability of the shoulder joint (Y-balance) and throwing accuracy (upper right corner) (r = 0.766; p < 0.001), throwing accuracy (upper left corner) (r = 0.729; p < 0.001), total throwing accuracy (r = 0.907; p < 0.001). The IG showed significant improvement in trunk stability (p < 0.001), shoulder joint stability (p < 0.001), throwing velocity (p < 0.001), and throwing accuracy (p = 0.002), compared to the CG. These findings support the idea that trunk and shoulder stability are related to throwing performance of female handball players. Measuring and training these aforementioned factors, particularly medial shoulder stability, may be a valuable adjunct to improving throwing accuracy and throwing velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate how a ball regulation change, implemented in U15 girls' handball games, now affects game performance and shooting plays. Over 14 matches (28 observations), we included all the attacks (n = 813) and shooting plays (n = 589) with the conventional ball and all the attacks (n = 821) and shooting plays (n = 618) with the new ball performed by both teams. We used notational analysis to compare the game performance and shooting plays in these two conditions. Our main results were as follows: (i) the attack efficacy was higher with the new ball (41.9%) than with the conventional ball (36.1%); and (ii) the prevalence of the three-line defensive system was higher with the new ball (10.5%) than with the conventional ball (2.7%). It can be inferred that the new ball enabled backcourt players to execute more powerful middle- and long-range shots, leading to their adoption of deeper defensive tactics that were effective in halting advancing backcourt players. Moreover, implementing new ball regulations resulted in a significantly higher frequency of shots targeted at the upper third of the goal frame (44.4%) compared to those observed with the conventional ball (35.8%). This implies that the introduction of the new ball enhanced precision control over shot placements, resulting in an increased player preference for targeting the upper course. Lastly, goalkeepers' saving rates decreased under the new ball, highlighting the need for technical and tactical coaching, tailored to goalkeepers. In summary, implementing the new ball regulations had a positive impact on Japanese U15 girls' handball performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While left-handers have been overrepresented among 7-meter shooters in handball, previous investigators have not found success from the 7-meter line to be related to handedness. Drawing on previous handedness research in sport, we performed two studies to examine possible negative frequency-dependent advantages to left-handedness during 7-meter throws among elite players. In Study I, we analyzed the records of 974 7-meter shooters from Danish and Norwegian elite divisions (485 males and 489 females) and found that left-handed males were overrepresented compared to the prevalence of left-handers in these two leagues, but left-handed females were not. An analysis of covariance showed no statistically significant associations between throwing arm or sex, and success from the 7-meter line. In Study II, we analyzed the records of 899 7-meter shooters at 41 major championships for both males and females between 2007-2023 (442 males and 457 females). We again found left-handed males to be overrepresented compared to their prevalence at the championships, but left-handed females were not. Also, in alignment with Study I, an analysis of covariance found no associations between throwing arm or sex, and success from 7-meter throws. These findings further underline the complexities associated with lateral biases in sports, where there appear to be benefits for left-handed males in the selection process that are not evident during performance execution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shoulder injuries are a common problem in handball. One likely cause of such injuries is excessive throwing. However, it is difficult to measure the number of player throws in large cohort studies using existing methods accurately. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop and validate a method for identifying overhead throws using a low-cost inertial measurement unit (IMU) worn on the wrist. In a two-stage approach, we developed a threshold-based automatic identification method for overhead throws in a laboratory study using the IMU. Subsequently, we validated the suggested thresholds in a field setting by comparing throws identified by the threshold-method to throws identified by video recordings of handball practices. The best set of threshold values resulted in a per-player median sensitivity of 100% (range: 84–100%) and a median positive predictive value (PPV) of 96% (range: 86–100%) in the development study. In the validation study, the per-player median sensitivity dropped to 78% sensitivity (range: 52–91%), while the per-player median PPV dropped to 79% (range: 47–90%). The proposed method is a promising method for automatically identifying handball throws in a cheap and feasible way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed the effect of six weeks of biweekly upper and lower limbs' weighted-belt resisted sprint training (BRST) and weighted-vest resisted sprint training (VRST), or normal sprint training (NST) on muscle strength, speed, change of direction and handball-throwing velocity in young handball players. Twenty-seven pubertal male handball players aged 14.4 years were randomly assigned into BRST (n = 9), VRST (n = 8), and NST (n = 8) groups. Sprint ability (10-m and 30-m), squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), free-arm countermovement jump (CMJFA), standing long jump (SLJ), Five-jump test (FJT), change of direction and handball-throw velocity were assessed before and after a 6-week training in-season program. Within-group interactions showed that BRST improved all tests' performances (moderate-to-large). VRST improved sprint, SLJ, FJT and handball-throw velocity performances (small-to-large). NST improved only the change of direction performances (moderate). Between-groups comparison revealed that BRST improved all testing performances, except change of direction, compared with NST (large) and improved 30-m sprint, CMJFA, FJT and handball-throw velocity performance compared with VRST (moderate-to-large). In addition, VRST improved 30-m sprint, SJ and handball-throw velocity performances compared with NST (moderate-to-large). Throwing performance changes correlated with changes in sprint time and horizontal and vertical jump abilities (r = 0.40 to r = 0.69; p < 0.01). We conclude that while both resisted sprint training improved players' sprint, jumping and handball-throw performances, substantial improvements were recorded with the BRST compared to VRST and NST. Thus, BRST could be recommended to male U15 handball players as a valuable training method for developing physical fitness and skill performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The context personalization approach refers to matching educational content with characters, objects, and themes of students' out-of-school interests. Considering the positive effects of individual interest on the regulation of student-in-context experiences, this study used the context personalization approach to match physical education (PE) lessons with students' out-of-school interest for video games. The purpose was to explore the effects of a context personalization approach through a gamified PE unit on students' interests and perceived competence. Method: One hundred and eighty-four students from eight PE classes were allocated to either an experimental group or a control group. All classes experienced a handball unit (six lessons), inspired by the Games-Centered Approach. The only difference between the experimental classes (N = 5) and the control classes (N = 3) was the presence or the absence of a context personalization approach centered on students' out-of-school interest for video games. The effects were assessed on three outcomes variables: students' individual interest, situational interest, and perceived competence. Results: The gamified PE unit resulted in positive effects on students' individual interest, situational interest, and perceived competence in handball, since the experimental classes reported higher scores for all variables compared to the control classes. However, the effects on students' situational interest were principally moderated by students' individual interest, indicating that the effect of the context personalization approach was higher for the students having low preintervention individual interest. Discussion/Conclusion: Using a context personalization approach based on a gamified unit is a promising strategy in PE to impact students' interests and perceived competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Motivation is considered crucial in sports participation and performance, influencing athletes’ psychological well-being, investment in training, and interpersonal relationships. Self-determination theory (SDT) is a prominent framework used to understand motivation in sports, highlighting the importance of autonomous motivation for optimal performance and well-being. A large number of questionnaires for examining processes in sports were created by relying on the constructs of SDT. Objective. This study explores the psychometric characteristics (construct validity) of the Sport Motivation Scale II (SMS-2), as well as gender and age differences in motivation among young Serbian athletes. This questionnaire has proven to be important for understanding the motivation of adult athletes, but so far, its psychometric characteristics have not been sufficiently examined on a sample of young athletes in Serbia. Given the high dropout rate from sports in adolescence, valid questionnaires to assess the motivation of young athletes can help to identify athletes who are at risk of leaving a sport. Design. The sample consisted of 365 young athletes (51% girls, aged 12–16) from Serbia participating in team sports (at an organized level, not a recreational level), including volleyball, basketball, and handball. They completed the SMS-2 using paper and pen, in the presence of a psychologist and with parental consent obtained by the clubs. The questionnaire has been translated into Serbian. Young athletes from team sports were selected due to the large number of adolescents in Serbia who are engaged in organized team sports. There is a small number of adolescents who are involved in organized individual sports. Results. Factor analysis of the SMS-2 revealed six factors, in line with the original structure of the Scale: identified motivation, intrinsic motivation, amotivation, external motivation, integrated motivation, and introjected motivation. The questionnaire demonstrates satisfactory psychometric properties, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients indicating good internal consistency. Gender differences were obtained only in external motivation, where boys scored higher than girls. No significant differences emerge in motivation across age groups or among athletes participating in different sports. It is possible that differences were not found in relation to the type of sport because there are similarities in the process of working with young athletes in team sports. Conclusion. The Sport Motivation Scale II (SMS-2) showed satisfactory psychometric characteristics in a Serbian sample of young athletes. The original structure was replicated, with six factors representing six types of motivation, in line with SDT. These findings suggest the SMS-2’s validity across gender, age, and sport types, offering a valuable tool for assessing motivation in young athletes engaged in organized team sports.

Muscular asymmetry is a prevalent issue among athletes, particularly in sports that involve repetitive and unilateral movements, such as handball. For junior athletes, these imbalances can significantly impact their physical development, performance, and risk of injury. This article explores the progression of muscular asymmetry in junior handball athletes who do not receive specific corrective interventions, through a series of case studies. Additionaly, it examines the use of the Tanita MC-780 MA body composition analyzer as a tool for assessing and monitoring these asymmetries. The Tanita MC-780 MA provided detailed insights into muscle mass distribution, confirming significant discrepancies between the dominant and non-dominant sides. The progression of muscular imbalance without intervention suggests the need for regular monitoring and targeted training to prevent the exacerbation of asymmetries and associated injuries. The use of the Tanita MC-780 MA proved valuable in precisely quantifying muscle mass differences and tracking changes over time.

High performance in sports requires lots of training and a good knowledge of training techniques, characteristics of physical training, mechanisms of lesion occurrence and methods of prevention sports pathology. Handball specific requirements are very important in order to avoid specific trauma, and in this matter specific literature is very important for specialists. This paper aimed to find how many relevant papers were published from 2018 to present regarding handball injuries and prevention of handball injuries, in two databases, PUBMED and Library Genesis (libgen.li.). For this matter there were used three equations to find results in the two databases selected, and for each of them there were quantified the number of scientific papers that were relevant to this study. Also, in this paper we presented inclusion/exclusion criteria, the results we found, and also, the analysis of each paper’s quality, for the papers that were a match to the inclusion criteria. For each paper we evaluated the quality of content using 5 relevant questions that help us understand the missing aspects that need further study, being applied individually for the two databases. The results we found revealed a very poor literature regarding injuries in handball and also prevention of injury in handball.

The prevalence of shoulder trauma in handball underscores the importance of medical rehabilitation for these injuries, making it a priority for researchers. This study aims to analyze and correlate data regarding the frequency of shoulder injuries, the age of injured athletes, the degree of disability, and the impact of the injury on their quality of life. We selected 40 athletes with instability injuries from 337 handball athletes, and they were distributed in two lots: LE= 20 athletes and the LC=20 athletes. We initially evaluated both groups using the DASH questionnaire, and the Burckhardt and Anderson quality of life questionnaire. The athletes in the LE group followed a rehabilitation plan structured into five phases, combining kinetic rehabilitation techniques with handball-specific exercises. Meanwhile, the athletes in the LC group followed a standard rehabilitation plan. We re-evaluated both groups using the same methods at the final program. The results emphasize that athletes in the LE group recorded significant improvements in both the DASH score and the quality of life score, indicating that the specialized rehabilitation plan had a positive effect on the handball players who followed it.

This study’s relevance stems from the high incidence of injuries among junior handball athletes, particularly instability injuries, which necessitate prolonged recovery periods and extended absences from the team. Forty handball playeres included in the study (LE=20 and LC=20). Both groups underwent initial evaluations regarding pain induced by the injury, daily activity, mobility, and strength. We analyzed the functional balance and had participants complete questionnaires to assess activity limitations due to shoulder injuries and instability, as well as functional impairment. After completing the recuperative program, the control group followed a traditional rehabilitation program, while the experimental group followed the proposed program. LE made important progress analyzed to the LC in terms of functional impairment due to pain and recovery from disability caused by instability injuries, according to post-evaluation results.

This study aimed to determine differences in morphological characteristics and body composition between female handball players from the national teams of Montenegro and Kosovo (U16). Thirty-four participants were included in the study, divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup consisted of 18 players from the Montenegro national team, with an average age of 14.68±0.58 years. The second subgroup consisted of 16 players from the Kosovo national team, with an average age of 15.33±0.66 years. Testing was conducted during the qualification rounds for the European Championship took place in Podgorica in 2021. All players were assessed for anthropometric measurements and body composition, with a total of twelve variables. Body height, body weight, hand length, arm span, triceps skinfold, biceps skinfold, subscapular skinfold, abdominal skinfold, calf skinfold, thigh skinfold, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage (BF).The Tanita - model BC-418MA was utilized for the assessment of body composition. Differences in morphological characteristics and body composition of the female handball players from the two national teams were determined through discriminant parametric procedures using the T-test for independent samples with statistical significance set at p < .05. The results indicated that the players from the Montenegro team were significantly younger, had significantly greater average body height, body weight, and hand length compared to players from the Kosovo team. Statistical differences between the two treated teams were found in the variable thigh skinfold, while no significant differences were observed in BMI and BF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handball is a team sport characterised by physical interaction with other opponents. This interaction produces a high load on the players that can manifest itself in various ways, from discomfort to prolonged injuries due to tears caused by excessive load. In order to establish correct protocols for application in women's teams, context- and gender-specific reference data must be available. For this reason, the present research aims to find out how women's teams in European competitions prepare for decisive matches during the match week, analysing the load in a segmented way and the level of specificity that should be achieved in training. Ex post facto research was used in which a total of 17 players belonging to a women's first division handball team in Spain participated. The variables player load and impacts extracted from the use of Wimu ProTM inertial devices were analysed. The results showed a high neuromuscular load in players at this competitive level, especially in the variable impacts, reaching values per session of up to 1000 impacts. The individuality analyses show that the load varies significantly depending on the subject, which is why it is considered essential to establish protocols for strength work and load control in the most specific way possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective study aimed to determine the impact of Fascial Manipulation® by Stecco (FM) on the range of motion (ROM) of internal rotation (IR) and horizontal adduction (HADD) in asymptomatic handball players, representing significant risk factors for shoulder injuries. A randomized controlled trial was conducted, with participants randomly assigned to either the investigated group (N = 29) receiving a single session of FM or the control group (N = 27) receiving no treatment. The ROM for IR and HADD were measured before, immediately after, and one month after the FM session. The investigated group experienced a statistically significant acute increase in glenohumeral IR (14 degrees, p < 0.001) and HADD (14 degrees, p < 0.001) compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The positive effects of FM persisted one month post-treatment, with increased IR ROM by 12 degrees (p < 0.001) and HADD ROM by 11 degrees (p < 0.001). Participants in the investigated group reported lower subjective tightness/stiffness immediately after (p < 0.001) and one month after treatment (p = 0.002) compared to the control group. This study demonstrates that a single application of FM effectively improves glenohumeral ROM in the dominant throwing shoulder of asymptomatic handball players. It highlights the immediate and sustained positive effects of FM on IR and HADD. These findings support the use of FM as an effective method for enhancing shoulder ROM and reducing subjective tightness/stiffness. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06009367). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reaction ability is the ability to react against a signal quickly and effectively. An auto-dynamic reflex movement is the quality of reaction ability. It plays a vital role in fast-moving games like basketball and handball to meet the high competition demands. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the admissible standard of hand and foot reaction ability and analyze the significant relationship between basketball and handball players. Methods: Thirty (30) basketball and handball players between 20 and 30 years of age who participated at least in state level and above tournaments from Manipur were randomly selected. Whole Body Reaction Type IV (Takei Kiki Kogyo Co. Ltd) was administered to collect the data for hand and foot reaction ability and recorded at 100 of a second. The descriptive analysis and independent 't' test were used to determine the significant differences in hand and foot reaction abilities between basketball and handball players. Results: There were found the same mean, i.e., M = 0.25 ± 0.05, in hand reaction ability (HRA) between the basketball and handball players. For the foot reaction abilities (FRA), M = 0.29 ± 0.05 and M = 0.29 ± 0.08 were the means of basketball and handball players, respectively. No significant differences in hand and foot reaction abilities between basketball and handball players were found. The result of the 't' test showed insignificant differences (p > 0.05) in hand (t = 0.286) and foot (t = 0.105) reaction ability at 0.05 level of confidence. The results revealed a similar standard of reaction ability between the basketball and handball players. Conclusion: The basketball and handball games have a similar nature, intensive motor qualities and competition demands. Therefore, insignificant differences in hand and foot reaction abilities are found between the basketball and handball players. The two games have similar levels of competition demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Sidestep cutting technique is highly individual and has been shown to influence knee joint loading. However, studies assessing whether individualized technique feedback improves technique and ACL injury-relevant knee joint loads instantly in a sport-specific task are lacking. Purpose To determine the instant effects of individualized augmented technique feedback and instructions on technique and the peak external knee abduction moment (pKAM) in a handball-specific sidestep cut. Additionally, to determine the effects of technique modifications on the resultant ground reaction force and its frontal plane moment arm to the knee joint center. Study Design Controlled laboratory cohort study Methods Three-dimensional biomechanics of 48 adolescent female handball players were recorded during a handball-specific sidestep cut. Following baseline cuts to each side, leg-specific visual and verbal technique feedback on foot strike angle, knee valgus motion, or vertical impact velocity using a hierarchically organized structure accounting for the variables' association with performance was provided. Subsequently, sidestep cuts were performed again while verbal instructions were provided to guide technique modifications. Combined effects of feedback and instructions on technique and pKAM as well as on the resultant ground reaction force and its frontal plane moment arm to the knee joint center were assessed. Results On average, each targeted technique variable improved following feedback and instructions, leading to instant reductions in pKAM of 13.4% to 17.1%. High inter-individual differences in response to feedback-instruction combinations were observed. These differences were evident in both the adherence to instructions and the impact on pKAM and its components. Conclusion Most players were able to instantly adapt their technique and decrease ACL injury-relevant knee joint loads through individualized augmented technique feedback, thereby potentially reducing the risk of injury. More research is needed to assess the retention of these adaptations and move towards on-field technique assessments using low-cost equipment. Level of Evidence: Level 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the challenge of assessing relatedness and functional interdependence through connecting passes within invasion games, which may offer valuable pedagogical insights into gameplay for accessibility and inclusiveness. Hence, the purpose of this paper is twofold. Firstly, it presents preliminary work on the methodology for computing open passing lanes and derived metrics, integrating spatiotemporal data analysis with event data. Secondly, using a within-subject design, it investigates how modified handball games influence game play opportunities. Data were collected during handball matches in a pre-teens Physical Education (PE) class with mixed-skill-level teams. Game actions (e.g., passes, receptions, and shots) were manually recorded through systematic observation of video footage, while players' positional data were captured with ultra-wideband technology. Findings provide evidence that employing a numerical advantage (one player up) enhances overall opportunities for individual attacking actions (i.e., more passing, catching actions, and goal-scoring opportunities) and relational actions (i.e., more open passing lanes) compared to equal numbers. Conversely, equal numbers with individual marking appeared more challenging, as fewer secure passing lanes were observed, and the ball possessor spent more time with the ball before releasing it. The developed approach holds promise for studying designed games to enhance inclusion and learning opportunities for all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Handball requires significant psychomotor skills, especially in young athletes, to enhance performance. Coordination training is crucial but under-researched in this context. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an experimental coordination training program on the psychomotor abilities of young handball players. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 27 young handball players. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 15) receiving additional coordination training and a control group (n = 12) following standard training. Psychomotor skills were assessed before, during, and after the intervention by PNTR (Computer Tests of Coordination Abilities) tests. Statistical analysis included the Mann–Whitney U test for between-group differences and the Wilcoxon test for within-group comparisons, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in psychomotor performance, including reaction time and visual–motor coordination, compared to the control group. Specifically, there were statistically significant improvements in simple reaction time, visual–motor coordination, spatial orientation, attention distribution, and perception orientation. Conclusions: Coordination training effectively enhances the psychomotor abilities of young handball players, suggesting that its integration into regular training sessions can optimize performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Iberoamericana de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y el Deporte is the property of Revista Iberoamericana de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y el Deporte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Sport for All & Recreation / Herkes Için Spor ve Rekreasyon is the property of Journal of Sport for All & Recreation / Herkes icin Spor ve Rekreasyon Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this paper, the physical training and health conditions of female students playing handball sports were analyzed using innovative methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the effectiveness of exercise-based injury-prevention programs in preventing sports injuries in team handball players. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and CINAHL from inception until April 2023. Studies were included if they were randomized controlled trials or prospective cohort studies, contained a population of competitive team handball players, included an intervention designed specifically to prevent or reduce the risk of team handball injuries, and reported injury incidence rates specific to team handball players. Two researchers independently evaluated studies for inclusion and assessed their methodological quality. Study design, intervention details, participant characteristics, and the number of injuries in each group were extracted from each study by 2 independent researchers. The outcome of interest was the incidence rate of injury. Injury data were classified into 5 groups: shoulder injuries, lower extremity injuries, knee injuries, anterior cruciate ligament injuries, and ankle injuries. Extracted data were analyzed using a random-effects model to compute the overall effect estimates of injury-prevention programs in reducing the risk of injuries. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were calculated based on the number of injuries in each group. Meta-analyses were conducted independently for each injury classification. Results indicated that prevention programs reduced the risk of shoulder injuries (OR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.42, 0.85; P =.004), lower extremity injuries (OR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.37, 0.95; P =.03), knee injuries (OR = 0.53; 95% CI = 0.35, 0.78; P =.002), anterior cruciate ligament injuries (OR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.45, 0.96; P =.03), and ankle injuries (OR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.40, 0.81; P =.002) in team handball players. In team handball players, injury-prevention programs appear to effectively reduce the risk of shoulder, lower extremity, knee, ankle, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handball is characterized by frequent changes in direction, jumping, and intense physical contact, which contribute to a high incidence of injuries, especially in the lower extremities. These injuries often come with the risk of re-injury or new injuries, affecting athletic performance. Assessing hamstring muscle strength, vital for knee joint stability, is a crucial approach to preventing sports injuries. Weakness in eccentric hamstring strength can increase the risk of overuse injuries, hamstring strains, and ACL tears. Detecting muscle strength imbalances in athletes is an effective strategy for preventing future injuries. This study aimed to compare maximum eccentric hamstring force and assess asymmetry between the right and left legs in young male and female handball players with differing injury histories. Performed as an analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design, it involved a total sample of 82 young handball players (46 males and 36 females), grouped according to their injury history. Participants performed an eccentric hamstring strength test using the Nordic hamstring bilateral test, measured with the NordBord hamstring testing device (VALD Performance, Australia). This study found a significant difference in the percentage of asymmetry between players with a history of injury and those without (p = 0.000). However, the mean maximal hamstring eccentric strength did not differ significantly between injury history groups in each gender. The observed higher mean percentage of hamstring eccentric imbalance in players with a history of injury may be influenced by various factors, including player position, rehabilitation process, training level, body composition, and overall physical performance. The high percentage of imbalances in athletes requires careful attention to mitigate their negative effects on athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: This study examines the potential impact of Ramadan fasting on sleep patterns and physical fitness in under 14 (U14) and under 17 (U17) female handball players. Methods: For this study, sixty-five female handball players' (U14, n = 33 and U17, n = 32) sleep habits were assessed before (BR) and during the first (R1) and last weeks (R4) of Ramadan using: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Physical ability tests including balance and jumps were conducted throughout these periods.; Results: During Ramadan, both groups noted significant increases in PSQI and ISI scores during R1 (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) and R4 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively) compared to before Ramadan (BR). For the U14 group, a significant increase occurred in ESS scores during R1 (p < 0.01) and R4 (p < 0.05), whereas for the U17 group, this increase was limited over the R1 period (p < 0.05). In contrast, for all physical ability parameters, both groups showed no significant difference during R1 and R4; Conclusions: During adolescence, Ramadan fasting may alter sleep patterns in young female athletes but appears to have no effect on their performance in short-duration exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, we published self-reported data concerning the perceived effects of the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptives on the training and performance of 1086 female athletes participating in 57 sports. However, studies comparing differences between sports with large sample sizes are lacking. The aim of this ancillary study was to compare the impact of the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptives on training and performance between the three largest sports in the cohort, that is, football, handball, and orienteering, as well as the knowledge and support provided to the female athletes engaged in these sports. The results are from a web-based questionnaire completed by 312 football players, 243 handball players, and 93 orienteers. A total of 54% of the orienteers planned their training based on the menstrual cycle, which was a higher proportion compared to football (45%) and handball (29%) players (p < 0.05). Fewer football players believed that the menstrual cycle had an impact on their performance during training and competition compared to the two other sports. A high proportion of the athletes used hormonal contraceptives in all three sports, but a lower proportion of the orienteers (40%) used hormonal contraceptives compared to football (76%) and handball players (66%) (p < 0.05). Football and handball players received overall more support than orienteers, and the support was mostly provided by a physiotherapist and/or a strength and conditioner coach besides the main coach. These findings demonstrate that the perceived influence of the menstrual cycle and hormonal contraceptives on training and performance differs between endurance athletes in orienteering compared to team-sport athletes in football and handball. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An evaluation of player behaviour and performance across different playing conditions in team sport is difficult. This study examined integrative (indegree and outdegree importance) and individual (goals, kicks, handballs, marks, tackles, kick and handball proficiency) level behaviours at one professional Australian Football club across three different conditions: small-sided games (SSGs), match simulation and competitive Australian Football League (AFL) matches. Estimated marginal means identified negligible changes for integrative measures across conditions. This may suggest larger changes to control parameters are required to modify these behaviours, as it relies on interdependent cooperative behaviour. Individual level behaviours demonstrated varied responses across changing conditions. AFL matches revealed the lowest kicks and marks per minute compared to the other conditions, whilst having the highest rate of tackles. Players had lower kick proficiency in conditions with a higher number of players. Moreover, one SSG with a floater (player who participates in attack for both teams) elicited a higher number of handballs per minute relative to every other condition. These findings provide implications for measuring the (in)stability of individual and integrative level behaviours and how changes to constraints may alter these metrics. This method may provide a foundation for future hypotheses testing and for player monitoring that can assist practitioners to examine the changes in players behaviours in response to changing constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to propose a new methodological approach for analyzing relative age effect (RAE) in different sports or samples named "Relative age effect overall scale" (RAEOS). The sample consisted of 1455 male and female young athletes who competed in four different sports (basketball, n = 159; handball, n = 215; swimming, n = 981; taekwondo, n = 100) at the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Buenos Aires in 2018. To construct the new model, the sample was classified into four unified quartiles of a specific range depending on the sport (swimming: 48-month range, taekwondo: 24-month range, and basketball and handball: 36-month range). Expected and observed frequencies for each sport, the winners/all athletes, and differences between team and individual sports were analyzed using a non-parametric Chi-square test. The obtained results confirm the existence of the RAE in all four analyzed sports (p > 0.01) in a sample of all participants and the sample of gold medalists. Differences between team and individual sports in the analyzed sample have also been found. The proposed methodological approach (RAEOS) is a simple and applicable tool that provides opportunities for comparison and analysis of different sports and competition formats, as well as improvement of the sports talent system in the context of RAE issues. It is suggested to the sports decision-makers to improve the YOG qualification and competition system to enable fairer competition and reduce the influence of RAE on the performance and development of young athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While previous studies have explored a range of factors governing the optimal use of caffeine (CAF) in athletes, limited research has explored how time of day (TOD) affects the ergogenic effects of various CAF dosages on physical performance. This study aimed to increase knowledge about how different recommended CAF doses (3 mg/kg vs. 6 mg/kg) ingested at different TODs affected maximal high-intensity physical performance and the perception of potential side effects in female athletes. In this double-blind, randomized, and counterbalanced study, 15 low CAF consumer athletes (aged 18.3 ± 0.5 y) underwent six trials, including three testing conditions assessed across two TODs: one in the morning (08:00 a.m.) and one in the evening (06:00 p.m.). During each condition, the participants ingested either a placebo, 3 mg/kg CAF (CAF (3 mg)), or 6 mg/kg CAF (CAF (6 mg)) capsules 60 min before each test with an in-between washout period of at least 72 h. In each trial, the participants performed a countermovement jumps test (CMJ), a modified agility t test (MATT), a repeated sprint ability (RSA), a rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and finally, a CAF side effects questionnaire. Our findings indicate the absence of an ergogenic effect on CMJ, MAT, and RSA performance in the evening after administering CAF (3 mg) or CAF (6 mg) compared to a placebo. Likewise, when CAF was ingested in the morning, there was an improvement in these performances with both CAF (3 mg) and CAF (6 mg), with greater improvement observed after CAF (6 mg). Additionally, neither the CAF dosage nor the TOD had a significant effect on the RPE. The occurrence of side effects increased significantly after the evening ingestion of CAF, particularly with a moderate dose of CAF (6 mg). Our findings indicate that the effectiveness of CAF depends on the TOD and CAF dosage. When ingested in the morning, a moderate dose of CAF (6 mg), rather than CAF (3 mg), is more effective in improving short-term physical performance without affecting CAF side effects in female athletes. Nevertheless, when ingested in the evening, neither dose was sufficient to enhance short-term physical performance, and both dosages increased the incidence of CAF side effects, particularly at a moderate dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. Women's handball has evolved spectacularly in recent decades, becoming an arena where agility, strength, and endurance are the keys to success. Physical training thus becomes a crucial component in achieving peak performance, both nationally and internationally. Methods. To obtain the necessary data and respond to the established objectives, two different questionnaires were used: one addressed to the handball coaches of the senior women's team and another addressed to the handball players from the senior women's teams in Romania. The research was carried out in several stages, as outlined in table 1, with each stage being dedicated to the collection of relevant data from the two target groups. Results. The answers provided by athletes and coaches also suggest some differences in their perception of the impact of general physical training in handball: Technical advantage: - Coaches: 71.43% of coaches believe that physical training offers a technical advantage. - Sportswomen: 22.22% of sportswomen believe that physical training offers a technical advantage. Psychological advantage: - Coaches: No coaches selected this option. - Sportswomen: 11.11% of sportswomen believe that physical training offers a psychological advantage. Conclusions. In the analysis of the results from the questionnaire applied to handball players reveals fundamental aspects related to physical training. The female players involved in the study show considerable dedication to handball training, participating in 6-9 training sessions per week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. The aim of this paper is to closely analyse the fluctuation of the number of participating teams for each age category at juniors' level in all 3 competitional seasons held under the sign of the restrictions imposed in connection with the coronavirus pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic severely affected the sports' world, leading to the postponement of major sport events, including the Olympic Games, but also the cancellation of most competitions around the world, regardless of the sport. Methods. To analyze the impact on handball for juniors in Romania, the number of participating teams and withdrawals teams, as well as the form of competitions' organization during 3 competitional season was compared (2019-2020, 2020-2021, 2021-2022), both in the male and female sectors for Juniors 1 - Under 19, Juniors 2 - Under 17, Juniors 3 - Under 15. Results. The return to a handball life closer to normal was achieved with the start of the 2021-2022 competitional season. The new COVID conditions imposed for participation at the beginning of 2021-2022 season encouraged the teams to re-register and there was a clear increase in the participation in each Juniors' category. In this season, a total number of 309 teams participated in the competitions held for juniors in Romania: 84 participants in Juniors 1 (Under 19) competitions, 91 participants in Juniors 2 (Under 17) competitions and 134 participants in Juniors 3 (Under 15) competitions. Conclusions. The number means an increase of 109 teams in the current season, comaring with 2020-2021 season, but still a reduced number of teams compared with 2019-2020, a season that started without any restrictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handball is a dynamic and ever-expanding sport with increasingly demanding physical requirements, necessitating careful and personalized training. This study aims to analyze the impact of digital technologies on the performance of senior handball players, particularly regarding the development of strength and speed. Modern handball requires not only speed but also physical endurance, the ability to change direction quickly, and throwing power, underscoring the importance of specific training. The use of digital technologies, such as the Digital Wall system, allows coaches to monitor athletes' progress in real-time and adjust training sessions according to individual needs. The research is divided into two studies. Study 1 focuses on the implementation of a six-month training program for an experimental group of players from a men's handball team in Division A, aiming to evaluate the psychomotor reactions of athletes to technology-assisted training. Study 2 aims to develop a personalized training program based on a detailed analysis of performance data, applied throughout a competitive season. The methodology includes physical fitness assessment tests, such as health tests, fitness tests, jump tests, and strength tests, all designed to provide an overview of the players' physical capabilities. The results obtained will be compared to determine the effectiveness of the technological intervention and its impact on athletic performance. Estimated results suggest that the use of digital technologies can significantly enhance training efficiency and individual athletes' performances. The study will contribute to the development of innovative training methods, offering promising perspectives for the future of performance sports training. The conclusions will be published in specialized journals and presented at international conferences, aiming to optimize training programs for handball teams and other athletes from various disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]