Impact of Morphological Variables on Throwing Ability: A Gender-Driven Exploration Among Athletes in Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

This study represents a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between morphological variables and throwing ability, specifically examining gender-specific variations among athletes in Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. In the pursuit of an understanding, data were collected from a diverse sample of 420 athletes, comprising 210 males and 210 females, aged between 16 and 22. The investigation illuminated that athletes within the Cape Coast Metropolis possess not only well-developed body dimensions but also an adequate level of fitness, both integral to overall athletic performance. This insight was substantiated by the statistical analysis, which demonstrated that morphological features accounted for a substantial 64% to 73% of the variance in throwing ability. The study employed predictive equations tailored for male and female athletes, further illustrating the influential role of specific morphological characteristics. For male athletes, the equation TB = -12.53 + .577handspan + .053Body weight + .109Total Arm Length - .055thigh girth + .053Chest Circumference Expiration - .094Tricep Skin Fold encapsulates the predictive model. On the other, the equation TG = -8.11 + .597Handspan + .068Upper Arm Length + .013Body Weight + .021Thigh Girth encapsulates the model for female athletes. These equations provide practical tools for forecasting throwing proficiency within the local athletic community in Cape Coast Metropolis. This research contributes significantly to the field, emphasizing the pivotal role of morphological variables in shaping athletic performance. The findings underscore the importance of training programs and talent identification processes based on an individual's morphological characteristics, with the potential to enhance overall athletic development in the Cape Coast Metropolis region.