Male Handball Players Research Articles

Analyzing the effects of competitive fatigue on body composition and functional capacities of youth elite handball players

Handball demands intense movements like rapid direction changes and physical contact. Consecutive competitions expose player fatigue and weaknesses due to the sport’s exhaustive nature. Therefore, the aims of this study are twofold: (i) to investigate the impact of competitive fatigue on the body composition of youth elite handball players, and (ii) to analyze the impact of concentrated competition on their functional capacity performance. Seventeen young male handball players (age: 16.2 years, height; 177.8 cm, body mass: 73.0 kg) were assessed twenty-four hours before (TM1) and after the competitive period (TM2) in body composition, static strength, lower- and upper-body explosive strength, speed, agility, balance, and flexibility indicators. A Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was conducted to assess differences in body composition and functional capacities assessment between TM1 and TM2. Regarding results, body mass significantly increased in TM2 (p < 0.01), while increases in waist circumference and body fat percentage were not statistically significant. Functional capacity assessments revealed a significant decline in jumping performance (CMJ and SJ; p ≤ 0.01). Speed and agility assessments showed worse performance in TM2, significantly increasing 30 m sprint time (p ≤ 0.01). Balance indicators showed no significant differences, with mixed results in performance across different conditions. In sum, evaluating vertical jumps and long-distance maximum speed (i.e., 30 meters) could be valid tests for measuring and controlling fatigue in young elite handball players. Future research should regularly monitor young handballers after the competition to analyze the entire fatigue recovery process.

Relationship between plantar pressure distribution and sagittal spinal curvatures among handball players: A cross-sectional study

Background: Handball affects the spinal anterior–posterior curvatures and disturbs the foot plantar pressure which provides insights into alterations in an individual’s posture. However, little is known about how the mal-alignment affects the distribution of plantar pressure. Objective: To investigate the relationship between the thoracic kyphosis angle, and plantar pressure distribution among handball players. Methods: Sixty male handball players were distributed into two groups based on their thoracic kyphosis angles. Group A: 28 handball players with an angle greater than 44∘ (kyphotic group), and group B: 32 handball players with an angle equal to or less than 44∘ (normal group). The Formetric III 4D spine and DIERS Pedoscan devices were used to measure the trunk anthropometry and plantar pressure distribution. The Pearson correlation test was used to explore the relationship between the kyphosis angle and plantar pressure distribution. Results: Group A was significantly taller, had longer trunk length, greater lumbar lordosis angles, and forefoot plantar pressure (FPP), and less rearfoot plantar pressure (RPP) than group B ([Formula: see text]). They showed a highly significant positive correlation between the thoracic kyphosis angle and FPP, and a highly significant negative correlation with the RPP ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], respectively). There was no correlation between the lumbar lordosis angle and FPP or RPP ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], respectively). Conclusion: Handball players with greater thoracic kyphosis angle have greater lumbar lordosis angle. Increasing the thoracic kyphosis angle is strongly associated with increased FPP and decreased RPP. While there is no relationship between the lumbar lordosis angle and FPP or RPP.

Isometric Shoulder and Hip Strength Impact on Throwing Velocity and Reactive Strength.

The aim of the study is to examine relationships between shoulder extension-flexion and internal-external rotation strength of professional male handball players with throwing velocity, and the hip extension-flexion strength with horizontal and vertical reactive strength index. Fifteen professional male handball players participating in 1st League matches took part in the study. The results showed that isometric shoulder flexion and extension strength significantly predicted stable throwing velocity (r2=between 0.27-0.73) and dynamic throwing velocity (r2=between 0.30-0.62). In addition, isometric internal and external rotation strength significantly predicted stable throwing velocity (r2=between 0.32-0.54) and dynamic throwing velocity (r2=between 0.31-0.44). Moreover, isometric hip extension and flexion strength significantly predicted vertical reactive strength index (r2=between 0.31-0.45) and horizontal reactive strength index (r2=between 0.26-0.42). In conclusion, it was observed that shoulder strength has an enhancing effect on handball players' throwing velocity, while hip strength is a determining factor for the reactive strength index. In this context, it is assumed that shoulder weakness during throwing will affect the accuracy and velocity of throwing by disrupting the angular momentum, while weakness in the hip during the jump phase of the throwing motion will negatively affect the explosive power by limiting stabilization during landing.

Inclusion of Game-Based Stimulus During Flywheel Resistance Training Positively Influences Physical Performance in Handball Players

ABSTRACT Handball is a body-contact Olympic ball sport that is characterized by fast-paced defensive and offensive actions. Players must coordinate explosive movements (e.g. changing of direction) and handball-specific skills (e.g. passing). Maximizing performance requires a systematic approach to training that includes physical, psychological, technical, and tactical preparation. Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of movement-based (MOV; unspecific sport stimulus) or game-based (GAM; sport-specific stimulus) flywheel resistance training intervention in highly trained youth handball players. Method:Twenty-five highly trained youth male handball players completed two sessions per week of flywheel resistance training (MOV, n = 12; GAM, n = 13) over the 7-week intervention period. Change-of-direction tests (180º change-of-direction speed test of both legs and test) and handball-throwing test were conducted before and after the intervention. Results: Both groups significantly improved V-cut, and 180º Change-of-direction speed test performance (p < .05; d = 0.79–2.05). Notwithstanding, the GAM group demonstrated greater improvements in V-cut and COD180ASY compared with the MOV group (p < .05) with small effect. Handball throwing speed performance remained unchanged independently of training condition (p > .05). Conclusions: These findings provide further support for the training principle of “specificity” and highlight the importance of including a game-based training stimulus during resistance training. This is a key consideration for coaches wanting to enhance physical performance in youth handball players.

The dynamic strength index is a reliable and feasible tool to assess neuromuscular performance in male and female handball players

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to explore the reliability and feasibility of the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and dynamic strength index (DSI) in semi-professional handball players (seventeen male and eighteen female). A cross-sectional design was used to determine the test-retest reliability of several kinetic metrics registered with a force plates. The peak force, peak relative force, rate of force development (RFD 0–250 ms), and impulse 0–250 ms were selected from the IMTP test, whereas the peak propulsive force was chosen from the countermovement jump test to obtain the DSI. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), standard error of the measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable difference (SDD) were calculated. A paired sample t-test was also performed. No significant differences were found between the testing sessions for all variables, except for peak propulsive force for all players (p = 0.036) and DSI for female players (p = 0.037). Reliability for all kinetic metrics was good to excellent (ICC = 0.78–0.97), with low variability (CV ≤ 8.64%), being the SEM scores lower than SDD. In conclusion, the IMTP test and DSI are highly reliable and feasible tools for assessing neuromuscular performance in semi-professional handball players.

Risk factors for shoulder injury in professional male handball players: A systematic review

Handball is a globally popular and physically demanding sport that requires high-intensity intermittent activities, with a particular emphasis on frequent ball throwing or shooting. The primary aim of this systematic review was to identify the risk factors for shoulder injuries in professional male handball players. The secondary aim is to propose preventive measures for reducing shoulder injuries in professional or elite handball players. This study followed the guidelines provided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were used to identify relevant studies. Only 8 studies met the eligibility requirements and were incorporated into the review. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) was assessed for the methodological quality of studies. Seven of the total eight studies were considered moderate quality, however, only one study was considered low quality. Based on this review findings, the following risk factors for shoulder injury are prominent among professional and elite male handball players. The primary factors for eventual shoulder injury are shoulder muscle imbalances, range of motion (ROM) discrepancies, glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD), and scapular dyskinesis. Also, in one study authors specified player position as a potential risk factor.

Zinc transporters expression profile in professional handball players supplemented with zinc

IntroductionZinc (Zn) deficiency has been described not only on general human health but also within the sports context –as negatively affecting performance–. Thus, Zn status assessment is of great interest for athletes, especially in order to correct deficiency states of this mineral. ObjectiveThe overall objective of this work was to assess Zn status in professional handball players during the competitive period (through plasma levels, dietary intake and gene expression of the Zn transporters), as well as to determine the effect of Zn supplementation. MethodsA total of twenty-two participants were recruited, –twelve belonged to the Control Group (CG) and ten male handball players comprised the experimental group (ATH-G)–, being monitored over a 2-month period with 2 evaluation moments: baseline (i.e., initial conditions) and follow-up (i.e., after 8 weeks of training and competition). Zn intake, plasma Zn levels, and gene expression of Zn transporters were obtained. ResultsPlasma Zn levels were higher in ATH-G than in CG at the end of Zn intervention (p ≤ 0.010). Moreover, differences in the gene expression profile of Zn transporters were observed in ATH-G –with the down-regulation of several Zn transporters–, compared to the CG at baseline (p ≤ 0.05). Likewise, differences in the Zn transporters expression were observed in ATH-G at 8 weeks (all, p ≤ 0.001) –with ZnT2, ZnT5, ZIP3, ZIP5, ZIP11, ZIP13 and ZIP14 transporters being up-regulated–. ConclusionHandball players seemed to have different nutritional needs for Zn, with differences in the gene expression of Zn transporters compared to controls. Zn intervention in our athletes may have influenced the expression of Zn transporters, indicating a potential increase in Zn transporters expression to mobilize Zn at the cellular level at 8 weeks of Zn intervention.

The Performance Analysis of Male Handball Players Using Tree-Based Machine Learning Models

The Performance Analysis of Male Handball Players Using Tree-Based Machine Learning Models

An Exploratory Study on Seasonal Variation in the Gut Microbiota of Athletes: Insights from Japanese Handball Players.

Despite accumulating evidence that suggests a unique gut microbiota composition in athletes, a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon is lacking. Furthermore, seasonal variation in the gut microbiota of athletes, particularly during the off-season, remains underexplored. This study aimed to compare the gut microbiotas between athletic subjects (AS) and non-athletic subjects (NS), and to investigate variations between athletic and off-season periods. The data were derived from an observational study involving Japanese male handball players. The results revealed a distinct gut microbiota composition in AS compared with NS, characterized by significantly higher alpha-diversity and a greater relative abundance of Faecalibacterium and Streptococcus. Moreover, a comparative analysis between athletic and off-season periods in AS demonstrated a significant change in alpha-diversity. Notably, AS exhibited significantly higher alpha-diversity than NS during the athletic season, but no significant difference was observed during the off-season. This study demonstrates the characteristics of the gut microbiota of Japanese handball players and highlights the potential for changes in alpha-diversity during the off-season. These findings contribute to our understanding of the dynamic nature of the gut microbiota of athletes throughout the season.

Coach-athlete relationships and life skills development among Brazilian handball players: A prospective study

This study was to examine the prospective associations between coach-athlete relationship (CAR) and life skills development in youth handball players. This study employed a longitudinal research design. A total of 78 male handball players completed the Life Skills Scale for Sport and the Coach-Athlete Relationship Questionnaire over three waves of data collection: start of the season; midseason and end of the season. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance Pearson’s Correlation and Linear Multiple Regression (p&lt;.05). The findings indicated the three dimensions of CAR seem to have higher effect on life skills subscales as the season progressed (i.e., higher effect on life skills at T3 compared to T2 and T1). Commitment and Complementarity were positively associated with several life skills subscales at all three timepoints. Results suggest that the quality of the CAR is an important determinant for the development of life skills in youth handball players across the sports season.

Effects of a horizontal speed deceleration training programme on measures of physical fitness in youth male handball players

ABSTRACT This study examined the effects of an 8-week horizontal speed deceleration training (HSDT) programme in combination with regular handball-specific training as compared with handball-specific training only in measures of physical fitness in male youth handball players. Thirty-nine players were randomly assigned to either an HSDT group (n = 18; 15.55 ± 0.24 years) or an active-control group (CG; n = 21; 14.59 ± 0.23 years). The results showed significant and large between-group differences at post-test in countermovement jump, change-of-direction speed, and repeated sprint ability (RSA) (all p < 0.01; d = 2.04 and 1.37, 1.39, 1.53, and 1.53 for the CMJ, 505 CoD, RSAbest, RSAaverage, and RSAtotal performances, respectively). The post-hoc-analysis demonstrated significant and large improvements in all measures of physical fitness in the HSDT group (∆2.49% to 16,25%; d = 1.01 to 1,70; all p < 0,01). The CG, however, failed to reach any significant difference in all measures of physical fitness ((∆0.31% to 1.98%; d = 0.15 to 0.22; p = 0.379; p > 0.05). To summarise, an 8-week in-season HSDT programme alongside regular handball-specific training yielded positive effects on various performance measures including jumping ability, CoD speed, and RSA, when compared to handball-specific training alone. These results highlight the potential benefits of integrating HSDT into the training regimen of youth handball athletes during the competitive season.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Six-Week Plyometric Training Intervention on Speed-Strength Fitness Abilities of Male Team Handball Players

Background and study aim: Plyometric training is widely acknowledged as an effective option for athletes to attain improved physical performance. A variety of exercises involving the lower limb's stretch-shortening cycle can be used for plyometric training. Numerous studies have examined the impact of plyometric training on various outcomes in various populations over the past few decades. Objective: This study set out to ascertain how a six-week plyometric training programme affected the development of speed-strength fitness measurements in male team handball athletes. Material and methods: Total of thirty intercollegiate level team handball athletes were randomly assigned to 2 groups i.e. plyometric training group with an average age of 20.7 ± 0.7 years, height of 175.3 ±4.2, weight of 75.1 ± 4.1 and BMI of 24.43 ± 0.97; control group with an average age of 20.8 ± 0.7, height of 175.1 ± 4., weight of 74.9 ± 3.1 and BMI of 24.47 ± 1.37. The linear sprint (10 m and 30 m), standing long jump (SLJ), and change of direction sprint (CODS) were evaluated before and after the intervention for thirty male team handball athletes who were randomly assigned to either the plyometric training group (PTG) (n = 15) or the control group (CG) (n = 15). Results: Within group changes were analyzed using paired t-test. The significant differences obtained between the tests in all dependent variables. Conclusion: When it comes to linear sprints, standing long jumps, and change of direction sprints, plyometric training works better than CG. Consequently, adding either plyometric training or sport-specific training to an athlete's regimen may help male team handball players achieve greater speed-strength fitness.

Seasonal Changes in Body Composition in Elite Male Handball Players

Having knowledge of an athlete's body composition values enables individuals to assess their physical condition and performance. It has become increasingly important in recent years to demonstrate the significant relationship between body composition and athletes' physical performance. The aim of this study is to examine the changes in body composition of elite male handball players during preparation and competition periods (42 weeks). Twenty-three elite male handball players volunteered for this study The Tanita brand body analysis device was used to evaluate body composition and eight measurements were taken. Athletes were divided according to their playing positions (playmakers n=8 and goalkeepers n=4, wings n=7 and pivots n=4). 7 measurements were evaluated, which were weight (W), body fat percentage (BF%), fat mass (FM), muscle mass (MM), total body water (TBW), body mass index (BMI), and basal metabolic rate (BMR). Wing players had lower body fat percentage and body fat mass than all other playing positions and regardless of position, all athletes' body fat percentage and body fat mass significantly decreased at T2 (p&amp;lt;0.05). As a result, increase in body fat percentage and fat mass was observed during the competition period, and this increase continued (p&amp;lt;0.05). The increase in fat mass during the competition period may be due to different training content and higher training intensity during the preparation period, changes in nutrition habits due to camps, long trips, and tournaments, as well as the ef-fects of fatigue and stress. Further studies are needed in these areas.

A 6-week randomized-controlled field study: effect of isokinetic eccentric resistance training on strength, flexibility and muscle structure of the shoulder external rotators in male junior handball players.

Background: Team handball involves a tremendous amount of shoulder motion with high forces during repeated extended external range of motion. This causes shoulder complaints and overuse injuries. While eccentric training for the lower extremity shows preventive effects by improving strength, range of motion and fascicle length, there is a research gap for the shoulder joint and for advanced tissue characterization using diffusion tensor imaging. Objectives: To investigate the effects of 6-week eccentric isokinetic resistance training on strength, flexibility, and fiber architecture characteristics of the external rotators compared to an active control group in junior male handball players. Methods: 15 subjects were randomly assigned to the eccentric training group and 14 subjects to the active control group (conventional preventive training). Primary outcome measures were eccentric and concentric isokinetic strength of the external rotators, range of motion, and muscle fascicle length and fascicle volume. Results: The intervention group, showed significant changes in eccentric strength (+15%). The supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles showed significant increases in fascicle length (+13% and +8%), and in fractional anisotropy (+9% and +6%), which were significantly different from the control group. Conclusion: Eccentric isokinetic training has a significant effect on the function and macroscopic structure of the shoulder external rotators in male junior handball players. While strength parameters and muscle structure improved, range of motion did not change. This research helps understanding the physiology of muscle and the role of eccentric training on shoulder function and muscle structure. Furthermore, DTI was found to be a promising tool for advanced tissue characterization, and the in vivo derived data can also serve as model input variables and as a possibility to extend existing ex-vivo muscle models. Future research is needed for functional and structural changes following convenient eccentric field exercises.

Relationship between team ranking and physical fitness in elite male handball players in different playing positions

The aim of this study was to identify the key physical indicators that affect game performance of male team handball athletes in national team handball tournaments and explore them further in relation to playing positions. A total of 150 male handball athletes were tested before a national tournament, using squat, bench press, 30-m sprint, vertical jump, pull-ups and abdominal endurance testing. Correlation analysis was used to examine the potential relationship between fitness level and tournament ranking. The results revealed significant differences in fitness variables among different playing positions (p < 0.05), excepted abdominal endurance and vertical jump (p > 0.05). 1RM squad performance was associated with team rankings (r = 0.289, p < 0.05). For individual playing positions, bench press of backs correlate with rankings (r = 0.354, p < 0.05). For goalkeepers, ranking was significantly positively correlated with 30-m sprinting (r = 0.604, p < 0.05). No other correlations were found (p > 0.05). To conclude, fitness level is to some extent related to team ranking with higher ranked teams having better scores in some of the fitness tests for all playing positions. The key predictors of performance in sport vary from position to position and practitioners need to differentiate between them to organize strength and conditioning training more precisely. More specialized fitness tests are also needed to assess athletes' competition ability.

The Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) Performance in Elite Team Handball Players Playing with Shoulder Pain, Previous Pain, or No Pain.

Physical therapists use tests that could determine strength and weaknesses of the shoulder for overhead throwing athletes to enhance performance, prevent injury, and safely progress rehabilitation. The Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) has been proposed to assess muscular capacity and dynamic shoulder stability in overhead athletes, which could provide information to determine a risk of injury. To investigate if the CKCUEST is an appropriate test to implement within team elite handball players to evaluate dynamic shoulder stability across sexes and in the screening of shoulder pain. Cross-sectional study. Elite team handball players were recruited and performed the CKCUEST from which three different scores (raw, touch, and power) were calculated and compared among handball players playing with shoulder pain, previous pain, and no pain. A total of 106 handball players were included: 49 females (1.74±0.03 m, 70.4±6.7 kg, and 22±4.9 years) and 57 males (1.90±0.08 m, 91.6±11.4 kg, and 22±5.4 years), A significant difference was found between the female and male handball players when comparing all three CKCUEST scores (p<0.01). No significant differences were found in the CKCUEST scores among the three different groups (F≤1.23, p≥0.30, η2≤0.03). Among the female participants, no significant differences were found between performing the CKCUEST and the modified test. A significant correlation was found between height and the power score for men (r=0.661, p≤0.001) and women (r=0.434, p=0.01). A comparison of scores across sexes appears unsuitable, due to the possible positive influence of height on the final score. But within the female group, performances of the CKCUEST and the modified CKCUEST were comparable. Additionally, the CKCUEST was not able to differentiate among elite handball players who are playing with shoulder pain, previous shoulder pain, and no pain. 3.

The relationship between body height and plantar pressure distribution in adult handball players: A cross-sectional study

Background/purpose The relationship between a handball player's upper body posture, body weight distribution in relation to body height is poorly understood. So, this study explored the relationship between body height and sagittal spinal curvatures and plantar pressure distribution in handball players. Method According to handball player's body height, 63 male handball players were divided into two groups; group A (age, 23.54 ± 1.32 years) consisted of 30 handball players with body height above average, and group B (age, 23.40 ± 1.73 years) consisted of 33 handball players with body height below average. The thoracic and lumbar curvatures and trunk height were measured with the Formetric III 4D spine, and the DIERS Pedoscan device was used to assess the plantar pressure distribution for both groups. Results The thoracic kyphosis of group A was significantly higher than that of group B ( p = 0.001), without a significant difference in lumbar lordosis ( p = 0.086). Group A showed a significant increase in the forefeet pressure and a significant decrease in the rearfeet pressure compared to group B ( p = 0.001). There was a high positive correlation between the body height and trunk length, and body height and kyphosis angle ( r = 0.932, r = 0.665, respectively). There was a high positive correlation between the body height and forefoot plantar pressure ( r = 0.665, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusion The taller handball players have an increased thoracic kyphosis angle and forefeet pressure compared to shorter handball players.

Ligament Injuries in Professional Male Handball Players: A 6-Year Longitudinal Study.

Handball is a sport that involves high-intensity actions throughout the game, such as sprints, jumps, landings, and high-speed, repeated throws. This, along with competitive and tactical factors, congested schedules, and the need to maintain a high level of performance throughout the season, contributes to a high injury rate. This study aimed to analyse ligament injuries in a professional handball team over six consecutive seasons. A total of 68 elite male Spanish handball players participated, with 54 time-loss injuries (i.e., injuries involving at least one day of absence) observed during this study period. Ligament injury information was recorded following the International Olympic Committee consensus statement. The overall incidence was 0.89 ligament injuries per 1000 h of exposure. Additionally, a higher incidence and burden of ligament injuries was observed during match-play compared to training. Most ligament injuries were classified as minor or moderate (i.e., 79.63% of the total), and 46.29% were reinjuries. A significantly higher incidence of ligament injuries was suffered in the lower limbs compared to the upper limbs (0.81 vs. 0.08 ligament injuries per 1000 h; p < 0.001). Specifically, the highest incidence was observed in the anterior talofibular ligament of the ankle (0.57 injuries per 1000 h of exposure), while the greatest burden was related to the anterior cruciate ligament (24.08 absence days per 1000 h of exposure). This study provides an overview of ligament injuries among professional handball players, highlighting the need to implement strategies with positive effects during competition (e.g., specific activation strategies or training programmes based on strength and balance) and to reduce injury recurrences.

Effect of Corrective Exercises on Posture, Upper Extremity Muscle Activity, and Shoulder Kinematics in Male Handball Players With Upper Cross Syndrome

Background and Aims Abnormal posture and alterations in movement and muscle activity patterns have been reported in people with upper cross syndrome (UCS). These changes can lead to imbalance in muscle activation, altered movement patterns, and biomechanical changes. The present study aims to investigate the effect of corrective exercises on posture, upper extremity muscle activity, and shoulder kinematics in male handball players with UCS. Methods This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 30 male handball players with UCS who were randomly divided into exercise (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The variables including upper extremity muscle activation patterns, shoulder kinematics, forward head posture, forward shoulder posture, and kyphosis were evaluated before and after intervention. Should kinematics and activation patterns of upper extremity muscles (supraspinatus, lumbar erector spinae, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, latissimus dorsi, pectoralis major) were recorded using electromyography and motion analyzer. The angles of forward head and forward shoulder were assessed using photographic method taken from lateral view, and Kyphosis angle was measured using a flexible ruler before and after exercises. The exercise group performed the comprehensive corrective exercises for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week), but the control group did not receive any intervention. To analyze the data, two-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni test were used. The significant level was set at 0.05. Results Forward head posture (P=0.001), forward shoulder posture (P=0.003), and kyphosis (P=0.002) showed significant improvements in the exercise group compared to the control group from pretest to post-test phase. In the preparatory and throw phases (slow and fast throwing), higher activities of supraspinatus, lumbar erector spinae, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and pectoralis major were observed in the exercise group compared to the control group (P=0.05). Moreover, in the preparatory and throw phases, higher range of motion of shoulder flexion, forward flexion of shoulder, internal rotation of shoulder, external rotation of shoulder, and shoulder abduction were observed in the exercise group compared to the control group (P=0.05). Conclusion Corrective exercises can significantly alter shoulder kinematics and upper extremity muscle activity patterns in male handball players with UCS, which can be used in future studies to prevent UCS in handball players during throwing the ball.

Biological maturity vs. relative age: Independent impact on physical performance in male and female youth handball players.

Maturity status and relative age are two of the determining factors in talent development. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of biological maturity status and relative age on physical performance in young male and female handball players. The sample included 48 males (14.11 ± 1.17 years) and 41 females (14.25 ± 1.64 years) players from one Spanish professional handball academy. Anthropometric data (height, sitting height, body mass and self-reported biological parent heights) and physical performance data (CMJ, DJ, 20 m speed, T-test and throwing velocity) were collected. Biological maturity status was determined as the percentage of predicted adult height, while relative age was estimated in birth quartiles based on biennial age grouping (Q1-Q8). The results showed a positive correlation between maturity status and CMJ in male players (p < 0.01). Differences in CMJ performance according to maturity status were identified (p < 0.05), with higher jump heights being recorded especially in early maturing boys (p < 0.01) and first lines and wings (p < 0.05). The variance in CMJ test scores could be explained by the maturity status by 42.90% in U-15 (p < 0.05) and 72.60% in U-16 male players (p < 0.001). By contrast, no differences were found in girls (p > 0.05). Moreover, no relationships were found between relative age and indices of physical performance (p > 0.05). Overall, maturity status had greater impacts on the tests of physical performance than relative age. Stakeholders should monitor the maturity status of young handball players to avoid physical performance biases that do not allow them to develop their sporting potential.