Prediction of Kabaddi Playing Ability from Selected Anthropometrical and Physical Variables among College Level Players

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to predict the Kabaddi playing ability from selected Anthropometrical and Physical variables among College level Players. One hundred and Fourty four male inter collegiate Kabaddi players were randomly selected from various colleges in Tamilnadu state, India and their age ranged between 18 and 28 years. The subjects had past playing experience of at least three years in Kabaddi and only those who represented their respective college teams were taken as subjects. A series of anthropometrical measurements was carried out on each participant. These included Standing height measured by Stadiometer; Body weight measured by weighing machine, Two Length measurements - Arm length, Leg length, measured by Lufkin Anthropometric Tape. The data were collected by following standard testing protocol of International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry. Physical fitness components were measured by the following tests. Speed were assessed by 50 meter dash, Flexibility assessed by Sit and reach test, Leg explosive strength assessed by Standing broad jump, Muscular power assessed by Modified sit – ups and Muscular endurance assessed by 2.4 km run. The playing ability which was taken as the performance factor was subjectively assessed by three qualified Kabaddi coaches. All testing was done two day before inter collegiate competition by using scientifically approved equipments. Mean and Standard deviations were calculated for each of the selected variables. The inter-relationship among the selected anthropometrical, physical variables and Kabaddi playing ability, were computed by using Pearson’ product-moment correlation coefficients. All selected anthropometrical and physical variables that statistically correlated with performance were used to form respective linear predictive models (step-wise argument selection). The results revealed that an Inter–relationship exists significantly between the anthropometrical, physical and performance variables among male inter-collegiate Kabaddi players. The results also revealed that speed, agility, weight and flexibility become the common characteristics which can predict the playing ability in Kabaddi players.