Relationship between the level of declarative tactical knowledge and physical fitness in youth Handball athletes

Abstract

Handball is characterised by rapid transitions between offensive and defensive actions during the game in order to score goals. The level of declarative tactical knowledge (DTC) and physical fitness (FPA) of the athlete can influence performance. This study aimed to analyse the correlation between the level of CTD and APF of handball athletes. The sample population involved 16 athletes aged 16.69 (±0.60) years, male, chosen by convenience. We used the Sport Brazil Project and CTD protocols. The body mass index of the analysed group had an average of 24.05 (± 5.71), indicating eutrophy and the waist-to-height ratio had an average of 0.82 (± 0.13), a healthy zone. Regarding the fitness level of the athletes, we identified weak levels for agility (100%), very good for flexibility (62.5%), good for lower limbs strength (62.5%), very good for upper limbs strength (50%), good for cardiorespiratory resistance (68.8%), reasonable for localised muscle resistance (37.5%) and weak for speed (100%). The CTD level was poor and evolving with a mean of 2.50 (± 1.03). The components of APF and CTD did not show significant correlations. Furthermore, the results were promising; however, they are below the standards of excellence, requiring improvement.