PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ARTICLE
This article was downloaded by: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in]On: 10 November 2009Access details: Access Details: [subscription number 906235054]Publisher Taylor & FrancisInforma Ltd Registered in England and Wales Registered Number: 1072954 Registered office: Mortimer House, 37-41 Mortimer Street, London W1T 3JH, UK
European Journal of Sport SciencePublication details, including instructions for authors and subscription information:http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/title~content=t714592354
Physical characteristics, physiological attributes, and on-courtperformances of handball players: A reviewGal Ziv a; Ronnie Lidor a
a Zinman College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Wingate Institute, Netanya, Israel
To cite this Article Ziv, Gal and Lidor, Ronnie'Physical characteristics, physiological attributes, and on-court performancesof handball players: A review', European Journal of Sport Science, 9: 6, 375 — 386To link to this Article: DOI: 10.1080/17461390903038470URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17461390903038470
Full terms and conditions of use: http://www.informaworld.com/terms-and-conditions-of-access.pdf
This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial orsystematic reproduction, re-distribution, re-selling, loan or sub-licensing, systematic supply ordistribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden.
The publisher does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contentswill be complete or accurate or up to date. The accuracy of any instructions, formulae and drug dosesshould be independently verified with primary sources. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss,actions, claims, proceedings, demand or costs or damages whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directlyor indirectly in connection with or arising out of the use of this material.
REVIEW ARTICLE
Physical characteristics, physiological attributes, and on-courtperformances of handball players: A review
GAL ZIV & RONNIE LIDOR
Zinman College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Wingate Institute, Netanya, Israel
AbstractThe main purpose of this article was to review a series of studies (n�23) on physical characteristics, physiological attributes,throwing velocity and accuracy, and on-court performances of male handball players � amateur players, experienced players,professional players, and players on the national team. Five main findings emerged from our review: (1) Elite players areheavier and have higher fat-free mass than amateur players. (2) The maximal oxygen uptake of male players is between 50and 60 ml �kg�1 �min�1. (3) Throwing velocity is higher by as much as 9% in elite male players compared with amateurmale players. (4) Heart rates can rise above 160 beats �min�1 in male players during a game. (5) On-court distance coveredin a game averaged approximately 4 km and ranged between 2 and 5 km, depending on playing position. Ourmethodological concerns based on the reviewed studies are: (a) a lack of on-court physiological data; (b) a lack ofexperimental/manipulative studies; (c) limited data on throwing accuracy; and (d) a lack of longitudinal studies. Thepractical implications include: (a) strength and power exercises should be emphasized in conditioning programmes, as theyare associated with both sprint performance and throwing velocity; (b) speed and agility drills should also be implemented inconditioning programmes; and (c) specificity of training based upon the position of the player is of great importance whenplanning strength and conditioning programmes.
Keywords: Team handball, sports performance, throwing velocity, throwing accuracy, on-court performances
Introduction
Since the 1960s, handball has established itself as one
of the most popular team sports (Clanton & Dwight,
1997; Marczinka, 1993). In this review, we use the
term ‘‘handball’’ to refer to the game that is played
between two teams, each comprising six court players
and a goalkeeper. We are not referring to the game
played in North America (also called handball) by two
(singles), three (cutthroat) or four (doubles) players
on a one-, three- or four-walled court (Tyson &
Turman, 1983). Professional and amateur handball
is played in countries on every continent. World
championships, continental championships, and in-
ternational tournaments in handball take place reg-
ularly. Handball has been played in Olympic
competition since the 1972 Games in Munich.
For handball players to attain and sustain a high
level of proficiency, their training programmes
should use knowledge from various sport-related
domains, including exercise physiology and sports
medicine. Information on training-related issues,
such as anthropometric measurements of handball
players (e.g. Noustus et al., 2008), physiological
attributes (e.g. Ramadan, Hasan, & Barac-Nieto,
1999), throwing velocity and accuracy (e.g. van den
Tillaar & Ettema, 2003, 2004, 2006), and on-court
performance (e.g. Delamarche et al., 1987; Luig
et al., 2008) can be utilized effectively in handball
programmes, especially strength and conditioning
programmes developed for handball players. Profes-
sionals involved in training programmes for hand-
ball players, such as handball coaches, strength and
conditioning coaches, athletic trainers, and sport
physicians, should have access to the physical and
physiological aspects of handball players so that
they can use this information when planning short-
and long-term programmes for their players. In
addition, this knowledge can be beneficial when
Correspondence: G. Ziv, Zinman College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Wingate Institute, Netanya 42902, Israel.
E-mail: [email protected]
European Journal of Sport Science, November 2009; 9(6): 375�386
ISSN 1746-1391 print/ISSN 1536-7290 online # 2009 European College of Sport Science
DOI: 10.1080/17461390903038470
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
these professionals assess the contribution of their
programmes to the development of their handball
players.
An attempt is made in this article not only to
review relevant studies on physical and physiological
characteristics of handball players, but also to adopt
a critical approach while analysing the designs of
these studies as well as their findings. Handball
coaches and strength and conditioning coaches who
aim in their training programmes to use (a) the
physical and physiological tests selected by these
researchers, (b) the test protocols adopted by them
or (c) the recommendations they offer, should also
be aware of the limitations and methodological
concerns of the reviewed studies. This information
should help these professionals select and perform
the most appropriate tests and test protocols for the
benefit of their players.
Therefore, the current article has three aims: (a)
to review a series of studies (n�23) on physical
characteristics, physiological attributes, throwing
velocity and accuracy, and on-court performances
of male handball players � amateur players, experi-
enced players, professional players, and national
team players; (b) to outline a number of methodo-
logical concerns and testing limitations associated
with the studies reviewed; and (c) to suggest
practical recommendations for handball coaches
and strength and conditioning coaches who work
with handball players at all levels (e.g. elite, amateur,
adolescent).
The reviewed articles were selected from an
extensive search of the English language literature,
including major computerized databases (PubMed
and SPORT Discus) and library holding searchers.
Search terms included, among others, handball,
team handball, handball physiology, and handball
players. Twenty-three articles matching our criteria
were identified.
Physical characteristics
A summary of the physical characteristics of handball
players across the reviewed studies is presented in
Table I. The mean height of handball players ranged
from 1.7490.06 m in 35 adolescent players (Barata,
1992) to 1.8990.08 m in 15 players of the best team
in Spain (Gorostiaga, Granados, Ibanez, & Izquierdo,
2005). The two studies recording the lowest mean
body mass focused on young players: the partici-
pants in one study were 35 adolescent players (age
16.590.8 years) (Barata, 1992), and those in the
second study were seven players of the Greek national
second division (age 19.791.1 years) (Delamarche
et al., 1987). In contrast, the two studies that reported
the highest mean body mass included national team
handball players (Gorostiaga et al., 2005; Gorostiaga,
Granados, Ibanez, Gonzalez-Badillo, & Izquierdo,
2006). Percent body fat ranged from 11.592% in
Kuwaiti national team players (Ramadan et al., 1999)
to 14.994.2% in elite Spanish players (Gorostiaga
et al., 2006).
To succeed in a sport, it is important usually to
have specific bodily attributes (Malina, Bouchard, &
Bar-Or, 2004; Malina, Meleski, & Shoup, 1982). In
one study (Gorostiaga et al., 2005), elite and
amateur handball players of the same age were
compared. The elite players were heavier and had a
higher fat-free mass and higher body mass index
(BMI) than the amateur players. The authors con-
cluded that a high body mass and specifically high
fat-free mass is advantageous in handball. In con-
trast, a study of first division and second division
Greek handball players showed no differences be-
tween divisions in terms of height or body mass
(Bayios, Anastasopoulou, Sioudris, & Boudolos,
2001); however, descriptive statistics only were
reported in this study.
Gorostiaga et al. (2006), who assessed 15 elite
players four times over one season � the first week of
the preparation phase, the beginning and the end of
the first competition phase, and the end of the
second competition phase � found no differences in
body mass or percent body fat. Fat-free mass
increased slightly over the season but returned to
baseline values by the end of the second competition
phase.
In a study comparing athletes from different
sports, handball players were taller and heavier
than soccer players in a sample of Kuwaiti national
players (Ramadan et al., 1999). Compared with
basketball players, elite handball players were shorter
than basketball forwards (1.88�2.00 m) and centres
(1.93�2.14 m) but of a similar height to guards
(1.85�1.91 m) (Ziv & Lidor, 2009).
Physiological attributes
Aerobic profile
The maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) of
handball players was 50.891.4 ml �kg�1 �min�1
in one study (Ramadan et al., 1999) and 58.39
5.3 ml �kg�1 �min�1 in another (Delamarche
et al., 1987). In the latter study, testing was con-
ducted on a cycle ergometer. It is possible that a
treadmill test would have resulted in higher values,
as handball players do not adapt particularly to
cycling and therefore local muscular fatigue may
have caused general fatigue before reaching the
limits of the cardiovascular system. In the study by
Ramadan et al. (1999), a comparison of handball and
soccer players with a control group (non-players)
revealed that handball players had lower VO2max
376 G. Ziv & R. Lidor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
(50.891.4 ml �kg�1 �min�1) than soccer players
(59.691.0 ml �kg�1 �min�1), and higher VO2max
than controls (45.992.0 ml �kg�1 �min�1).
In a third study, Buchheit et al. (2009) exam-
ined VO2max using a portable metabolic system in
nine skilled players during a graded exercise test, a
high-intensity intermittent endurance test, and a
four-a-side handball game that was designed
with simplified rules and no stopping to increase
the exercise load. Maximal oxygen consumption
was 57.3, 56.4, and 60.2 ml �kg�1 �min�1, respec-
tively. The authors suggested that VO2max values
obtained in a field-graded exercise test may not be
reliable and could underestimate the real VO2max.
However, several other factors may have interfered
with achieving maximal results in that test (e.g.
motivation of participants and methodology of the
test).
Ziv and Lidor (2009) reported the VO2max of
handball players to be similar to that of basketball
players (50�60 ml �kg�1 �min�1), and to be only
slightly higher than the 80th and 90th percentiles
values (52.1 and 55.1 ml �kg�1 �min�1) found in
20- to 29-year-old males (Whaley, Brubaker, & Otto,
Table I. A summary of the physical characteristics of male handball players (Mean9SD)
Study Participants Height (m) Body mass (kg) Percent fat (%)
Fat-free
mass (kg)
Asci and Acikada
(2007)
Experienced players
(n�16)
1.8590.06 86.198.9 N.A. N.A.
Barata (1992) Adolescent players aged
16.590.8 years (n�35)
1.7490.06 65.091.7 N.A. N.A.
Bayios et al. (2001) Greek Division 1 players
(n�15) and Division 2
players (n�12)
Division 1:
1.8190.06
Division 2:
1.7990.09
Division 1: 83.195.2
Division 2: 85.8912.7
N.A. N.A.
Buchheit et al.
(2009)
National level players
(n�9)
1.81 78.4 N.A. N.A.
Delamarche et al.
(1987)
National Division 2 players
and finalists of the Under-18
French championship (n�7)
1.8090.07 77.397.5 N.A. N.A.
Gorostiaga et al.
(2005)
Elite (n�15) and amateur
(n�15) players. Elite players
were members of the current
Spanish handball champions
Elite players:
1.8990.08
Amateur
players:
1.8490.07
Elite players: 95.29
13.0
Amateur players:
82.4910.0
Elite players:
13.892.0
Amateur
players:
11.693.0
Elite players:
81.799.0
Amateur
players:
72.497.0
Gorostiaga et al.
(2006)
Members of one elite
Spanish handball team
(n�15) measured four times
during a season: T1 � first
week of preparatory phase,
T2 � beginning of first
competition phase, T3 � end
of first competition phase,
T4 � end of second
competition phase
1.8890.07 T1: 95.6914.3
T2: 95.2913.4
T3: 95.6912.1
T4: 93.9916.9
T1: 14.994.2
T2: 13.992.6
T3: 13.692.6
T4: 14.093.1
T1: 80.798.8
T2: 81.899.4
T3: 82.198.8
T4: 80.3911.8
Marques &
Gonzalez-Badillo
(2006)
High-level players (n�16) 1.8490.13 84.8913.1 N.A. N.A.
Marques et al.
(2007)
Elite players (n�14),
including 4 Portuguese
internationals
1.8290.07 82.5912.2 N.A. N.A.
Noutsos et al.
(2008)
Elite junior Greek national
team players aged 15.590.4
years (n�30)
1.8090.07 77.8911.2 14.493.9 66.297.6
Ramadan et al.
(1999)
Kuwait national players
(n�15)
1.7990.02 85.893.2 11.592.0 75.9*
van den Tillaar &
Ettema (2003)
Players playing in Division
2 of the Norwegian national
competition (n�9)
1.8390.07 82.999.3 N.A. N.A.
van den Tillaar &
Ettema (2004)
Experienced players playing
in Divisions 2 and 3 of the
Norwegian national
competition (n�20)
1.8590.08 84.7910 16.793.2 70.6*
*Data not available in original paper calculated by authors.
Physiological attributes of male handball players 377
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
2006), suggesting that this attribute is not the one
that distinguishes elite handball players from non-
players.
A study that examined endurance capacity in
elite and amateur handball players while running at
10, 12, 14, and 16 km �h�1 found no differences
in mean blood lactate concentration or in mean
heart rate (Gorostiaga et al., 2005). The mean
running velocity and heart rate that elicited a blood
lactate concentration of 3.0 mmol � l�1 were similar
in both elite and amateur players, suggesting that
endurance capacity per se does not differentiate
elite from amateur handball players. In addition,
no significant differences in endurance running at
10, 12, 14, and 16 km �h�1 were observed in elite
players over the course of a season (Gorostiaga
et al., 2006).
Power and strength
Four studies have examined changes in power and
strength with training in male handball players
(Bonifazi et al., 2001; Gorostiaga et al., 2006;
Gorostiaga, Izquierdo, Iturralde, Ruesta, & Ibanez,
1999; Marques & Gonzalez-Badillo, 2006). In one
study (Gorostiaga et al., 2006), one-repetition max-
imum (1-RM) bench press increased by 2% from the
beginning of the preparation phase to the beginning
of the first competition phase (from 104.8915.6 to
106.9911.6 kg). This increase remained relatively
stable at the end of the first competition phase.
However, the power outputs of the lower and upper
extremities remained unaltered throughout the sea-
son. In another study (Bonifazi et al., 2001), 10
weeks of training significantly increased vertical jump
performance [countermovement jump (CMJ) �hands on waist] from approximately 49 cm to
51.5 cm (exact values were not presented). Average
power as measured from a 15-s set of consecutive
jumps also increased (from approximately 26 W �kg�1 to 29 W �kg�1).
In a study of 19 adolescent players (age 14�16
years), Gorostiaga et al. (1999) examined power and
strength changes after 6 weeks of heavy resistance
training. In the strength training group, maximal
dynamic strength of the leg extensors and the upper
extremity muscles increased significantly (12.2%
and 23%, respectively). No changes in strength
were observed in the group that undertook regular
handball training only or in the control group (non-
players). Interestingly, the strength training group
failed to show an improvement in vertical jump,
whereas the group involved in handball training
improved their vertical jump from 29.5 to 31.4 cm.
The authors suggested that this finding can be
explained by the strength training programme,
which focused on heavy loads and slow contractions.
They claimed that while this type of training can lead
to increased strength, it has not been found to
increase power and can even lead to a reduction in
power. However, others have suggested that heavy
loads and slow contractions can increase power
(Aagaard, Simonsen, Trolle, Bangsbo, & Klausen,
1994).
Improvements in dynamic strength and vertical
jump were indicated in a study of 16 elite handball
players over 12 weeks of resistance training that
included dynamic strength exercises (e.g. bench press
and half squat) and power exercises (e.g. counter-
movement jumps and sprinting) (Marques &
Gonzalez-Badillo, 2006). Bench press 1-RM and
parallel squats 4-RM increased from the beginning
of the training programme (58.5910.64 kg and
93.5913.9 kg, respectively) to after 6 weeks of the
programme (67.9912.8 kg and 122.2921.6 kg, re-
spectively) and after 12 weeks (74.7912.00 kg and
134.1919.4 kg, respectively). Players were also
tested for three types of vertical jumps: counter-
movement jump, countermovement jump with a
20-kg load, and countermovement jump with a 40-
kg load. Similar to dynamic strength, the increases in
performance were significant for all three types of
jumps, from the beginning of training to after 6 weeks
and to after 12 weeks of training. Based on the four
studies examining the effects of training on power and
strength, it can be concluded that handball players
can increase dynamic strength after participating in
resistance training programmes. However, improved
power was seen in only two of the studies (Bonifazi
et al., 2001; Marques & Gonzalez-Badillo, 2006),
with the other two failing to show improvements
(Gorostiaga et al., 1999, 2006). These differences can
be explained by the different types of training applied
in each of the studies. In the study by Marques and
Gonzalez-Badillo (2006), the training programme
included resistance training and explosive-type train-
ing (e.g. sprints and box jumps). These explosive-type
exercises are expected to improve power. In contrast,
in the study of Gorostiaga et al. (1999), the training
programme included heavy resistance training with
slow movements. As indicated earlier, these exercises
may hinder explosive performance. Another explana-
tion for the lack of power improvement during in-
season training was provided by Gorostiaga et al.
(2006), who suggested that low-intensity aerobic-
type training may have inhibited power and sprint
performance. Unfortunately, Bonifazi et al. (2001)
did not report the details of the training programme in
their study.
Differences in power and strength have been
shown to be relatively marked between elite and
amateur players. Bench press 1-RM was 22%
higher in elite players (106.9911.6 kg) than ama-
teur players (82.5914.8 kg) (Gorostiaga et al.,
378 G. Ziv & R. Lidor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
2005). Power output at all loads was also signifi-
cantly higher in elite players. Similarly, at all
absolute loads, half-squat power output was higher
in elite players. These findings suggest that power
and strength in a contact sport such as handball are
essential for achievement at the highest level of
sport performance.
Two studies compared power and strength in
handball players to athletes in other sports. One
study found no differences in bench press 1-RM and
peak power between handball players, basketball
players, volleyball players, sprinters, and body-
builders (Asci & Acikada, 2007). In contrast,
Izquierdo and colleagues (Izquierdo, Hakkinen,
Gonzalez-Badillo, Ibanez, & Gorostiaga, 2002)
found that handball players had higher half-squat
1-RM values than middle-distance runners and a
control group (non-athletes) (29% difference).
The effects of fatigue on performance are im-
portant. If fatigue hinders players’ performance,
coaches can make substitutions in the later stages
of a game. In addition, strength and conditioning
coaches can design the fitness programme with the
aim of delaying the players’ development of fatigue.
In one study (Thorlund, Michalsik, Madsen, &
Aagaard, 2007), fatigue was found to reduce muscle
performance in male players. Ten players were
assessed for maximal voluntary contraction
(MVC), rate of force development, and vertical
jump before and after a simulated handball game.
Quadriceps and hamstrings MVC and rate of force
development decreased significantly after the game
by 10% and 16�21%, respectively. In addition,
vertical jump height decreased after the game by
5.2%. These acute effects following exertion during
a game suggest that performance during the later
stages of a game may be impaired.
It should be noted that not only does increased
muscle mass increase power and strength, but neural
aspects are also important contributors. The neural
adaptations to strength training include an improved
synchronization of motor unit firing and an im-
proved ability to recruit motor units (Powers &
Howley, 2001). However, these neural aspects were
not examined in the studies reviewed.
Agility and speed
Sprint performances over 5 m and 15 m were
reported to be similar between elite and amateur
handball players by Gorostiaga et al. (2005), and
no differences in sprint performance were observed
in elite players throughout one season (Gorostiaga
et al., 2006). According to the authors of the
latter study, the low-intensity aerobic-type train-
ing used during the season may have inhibited
sprint performance. It was suggested that more
high-intensity endurance running and leg strength
training should be incorporated to improve sprint-
ing performance, whereas low-intensity endurance
running should receive less attention (Gorostiaga
et al., 2006).
In contrast to the previous two studies, Marques
and Gonzalez-Badillo (2006) reported improve-
ments in sprint performance in 16 elite handball
players over 12 weeks of resistance training. The
resistance training programme was undertaken 2�3times a week, and included dynamic strength ex-
ercises (e.g. bench press and half-squat) and power
exercises (e.g. countermovement jumps and sprint-
ing). A 30-m sprint test was performed with time
recorded at 15 m and 30 m. Results showed im-
provements in 30-m times after 6 weeks (2.24%
improvement) and after 12 weeks (3.13% improve-
ment) of training. Similar results were observed for
the 15-m sprint times (1.57% improvement after 6
weeks and 2.35% improvement after 12 weeks). This
improved performance may be explained in part by
the correlation between 4-RM parallel squats and
30-m sprints (r�0.52, P�0.04), and by the fact
that handball players worked on sprinting through-
out their regular practices (Marques & Gonzalez-
Badillo, 2006). In addition, compared with previous
studies that failed to report improvements in speed,
this study used a conditioning programme that
targeted improvement in both power and strength.
The 30-m sprint times observed in this study were
similar to those reported in another study of 30
junior (age 15.590.4 years) handball players (4.4 s)
(Noutsos et al., 2008).
Throwing velocity and accuracy
One of the most vital elements of handball is
throwing ability (Gorostiaga et al., 2005). Handball
players improve their chances of scoring by throwing
the ball as fast as possible and by aiming accurately
at the goal.
A summary of studies examining throwing velo-
city and accuracy in male handball players is
presented in Table II. Differences in throwing
velocity between elite and amateur players were
reported by Gorostiaga et al. (2005): elite players
threw the ball faster in the standing throw and the
three-step running throw than amateur players (an
8% and 9% difference, respectively). In both elite
and amateur players, bar velocity at 30% of 1-RM
correlated positively with throw velocity (r�0.67
and r�0.71, respectively; PB0.05�0.01). These
values suggest that players with higher bar velocities
at lower relative loads may be able to throw the ball
faster (Gorostiaga et al., 2005). In elite players,
significant correlations were found between three-
step throw velocity and velocities at different
Physiological attributes of male handball players 379
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
percentages of bench press 1-RM and half-squat 1-
RM. The strongest correlation was found at a
concentric velocity of 30% of bench press 1-RM
(r�0.72). No such correlations were observed in
amateur players, probably due to the poor techni-
que or poor throwing coordination of amateur
players. It should be noted that inferior bench press
technique could also contribute to this lack
of correlation in amateur players. Marques and
colleagues (Marques, van den Tillaar, Vescovi, &
Gonzalez-Badillo, 2007) also found significant cor-
relations between three-step running throwing velo-
city and bench press 1-RM (r�0.63), peak power
at 52% and 67% of 1-RM (r�0.58), and weight
bar velocity at 38% (r�0.56) and 52% (r�0.62) of
1-RM.
A study examining the relationship of throwing
velocity and isokinetic strength of the internal and
external shoulder rotators found that players of
Division 1 of the Greek national league had higher
throwing velocities than players of Division 2 and of
physical education students (Bayios et al., 2001).
This finding applied to three types of throws � a set
throw, a three-step running throw, and a jump throw.
Interestingly, no differences between groups were
seen in isokinetic strength of the shoulder rotators,
suggesting that peak torque of the shoulder rotators
is not related to throwing velocity. It was noted by
the authors that lower extremity strength as well as
trunk rotation may play an important role in throw-
ing velocity.
In contrast, a study of 11 US national squad
players found strong correlations between jump
throwing velocity and each of the following vari-
ables: peak torque of shoulder extension, internal
rotation, horizontal abduction, and elbow extension
and flexion (at velocities of 180, 240, and 300 deg �s�1) (Fleck et al., 1992). Correlations between
isokinetic torque and all three velocities for standing
throws were found only for horizontal shoulder
abduction. The results of this study (Fleck et al.,
1992) suggest that upper extremity isokinetic torque
is more important in jump throws than in standing
throws. This finding makes sense, since during a
standing throw one can use the lower extremities
and trunk rotation to increase ball velocity. In a
jump throw, it is much more difficult to use trunk
rotation or lower extremity force (Fleck et al.,
1992). Throwing velocity has also been reported
to be closely related to physical characteristics. For
example, van den Tillaar and Ettema (2004) found
correlations between body mass and throwing
velocity (r�0.54), fat-free mass and throwing
velocity (r�0.62), and height and throwing velocity
(r�0.60).
All of the above studies were of a correlative nature
and not of a causative nature. More intervention
studies are needed to elucidate the importance of
upper and lower extremity isokinetic torque and
throwing velocity in handball.
A number of studies have assessed the contribution
of training to increasing throwing velocity in handball
players. One study examined changes in throwing
velocity over a handball season in elite players and
found significant increases in standing throws and
three-step running throws at the end of the competi-
tion phase compared with the beginning of the phase
(Gorostiaga et al., 2006). In addition, significant
correlations were observed between total strength
training time and standing throwing velocities (r�0.58, PB0.05). Another study examined the effec-
tiveness of a 12-week resistance and power training
programme on three-step running throwing veloci-
ties, and found improvements after 6 and 12 weeks of
training (Marques & Gonzalez-Badillo, 2006). How-
ever, no changes were observed between Week 6 and
Week 12 of the training programme. In addition,
after 7 weeks of detraining, ball-throwing velocity
was reduced significantly. The authors argued that
the elite players may have reached their ball-throwing
velocity ceiling, and therefore no changes were
observed from Week 6 to Week 12 of the resistance
training. It can be determined from these two studies
(Gorostiaga et al., 2006; Marques & Gonzalez-
Badillo, 2006) that resistance training should be an
integral part of a handball player’s strength and
conditioning programme.
In another study, Barata (1992) examined
whether training with overweight balls (800 g) over
9 weeks would increase throwing velocity compared
with resistance training with loads of 1�12 kg and
with a control group (no resistance training). The
group that trained with heavy balls did show a
greater improvement in throwing velocity in both a
standing free throw and a free throw with three
preparatory steps than the resistance training group.
While the results were statistically insignificant for
both types of throws, confidence intervals suggested
that the differences were meaningful. The control
group showed a similar or even greater increase in
ball velocity than the resistance training group. The
authors suggested that this may have been due to the
relative lack of handball experience in the members
of the control group (70% of them were in their first
year as competitive athletes).
In highly skilled elite players who have great
throwing ability, specific resistance training with
underweight balls can add a positive training effect.
However, it is advisable that this type of training
should begin only after the athletes are well condi-
tioned (van den Tillaar, 2004).
There are two possible strategies for scoring a goal
in handball: (a) throwing the ball as fast as possible
without any intent to aim accurately, surprising the
380 G. Ziv & R. Lidor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
Table II. A summary of studies on throwing velocity and accuracy in male handball players (Means9SD)
Study Participants Treatment Characteristics of Throw
Barata (1992) Adolescent players
aged 16.590.8 years (n�35)
9 weeks of training:
Group a: throw training with heavier
balls(800 g) and official balls
Group b: regular resistance
training with loads of 1�12 kg
Group c: control
Standing free throw:
Group a: pre: 18.4 m � s�1, post: 20.5 m �s�1, improvement: 11.4%
Group b: pre: 18.9 m � s�1, post: 20.2 m �s�1, improvement: 6.9%
Group c: pre: 17.9 m � s�1, post: 19.3 m �s�1, improvement: 7.8%
Free throw with three preparatory steps:
Group a: pre: 21.0 m � s�1, post: 22.5 m �s�1, improvement: 7.1%
Group b: pre: 21.4 m � s�1, post: 22.2 m �s�1, improvement: 3.7%
Group c: pre: 20.3 m � s�1, post: 21.6 m �s�1, improvement: 6.4%
Bayios et al. (2001) Greek national league
Division 1 (n�15),
Division 2 (n�12) players, and
physical education students (n�15)
Descriptive study. Three types of
throws tested:
On the spot (spot)
Crossover step (step)
Jump throw (jump)
Division 1:
Spot: 23.5192.23 m � s�1, step: 26.279
3.21 m � s�1, jump: 22.7492.16 m � s�1
Division 2:
Spot: 20.0891.12 m � s�1, step: 23.229
1.86 m � s�1, jump: 20.5491.63 m � s�1
Physical education students:
Spot: 16.8591.58 m � s�1, step: 18.99
1.98 m � s�1, jump: 15.5491.42 m � s�1
Fleck et al. (1992) US national team
training squad (n�11)
Descriptive study. Two types
of throws tested:
Three-step running throw
Jump throw
Maximum ball velocities:
Three-step running throw: 28.190.81 m �s�1
Jump throw: 26.390.54 m � s�1
Average of three fastest throws:
Three-step running throw: 26.790.7 m �s�1
Jump throw: 25.290.54 m � s�1
Gorostiaga et al. (2005) Elite players (n�15)
and amateur players (n�15)
Descriptive study Elite players:
Standing throw: 23.891.9 m � s�1
Running throw: 25.392.2 m � s�1
Amateur players:
Standing throw: 21.891.6 m � s�1
Running throw: 22.991.4 m � s�1
8�9% difference between elite and amateur
players
Physiologica
lattribu
tesof
male
handba
llpla
yers381
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
Table II (Continued)
Study Participants Treatment Characteristics of Throw
Gorostiaga et al. (2006) Elite players (n�15) of the Spanish
national First Division league
Follow-up during a season.
Testing at beginning of preparation
phase (T1), beginning and end of first
competition phase (T2 and T3, respectively),
and end of second competition phase (T4)
Standing throwing velocity:
T1: 24.392.3 m � s�1, T2: 23.891.9 m �s�1, T3: 26.092.2 m � s�1
Running throwing velocity:
T1: 25.991.9 m � s�1, T2: 25.392.2 m �s�1, T3: 27.692.2 m � s�1
Significant difference between T3 and T2
to T1 in both standing and running throws.
No differences between T4 and T3
Marques & Gonzalez-Badillo
(2006)
High-level players (n�16) 12 weeks of resistance training (two cycles
of 6 weeks) followed by 7 weeks of detraining,
2�3 sessions per week.Principal exercises: bench
press, parallel squat, vertical jump onto a box,
vertical jump with weights, and sprint exercises
Three-step running throwing velocity in-
creased from approximately 22 m � s�1 at
the beginning of training to 24.5 m � s�1 at
the end of the 12 weeks. After 7 weeks of
detraining throwing velocity
was reduced to approximately 23.8 m � s�1
Ball throwing velocity increased only until
Week 6 of training and did not increase
further by Week 12
Marques et al. (2007) Elite players (n�14) Descriptive study. Three-step running throw Running throwing velocity: 23.9891.7 m �s�1
Correlations between throwing velocity and
bench press 1-RM (r�0.63), peak power at
52% and 67% of 1-RM (r�0.58), and
weight bar velocity at 38% (r�0.56) and
52% (r�0.62) of 1-RM
van den Tillaar and Ettema (2003) Experienced players of Norwegian
Division 2 (n�9)
Five instructional conditions:
(1) throw as fast as possible, (2) throw as
fast as possible while trying to hit the target, (3)
hit the target and throw as fast as possible, (4) hit
the target and try to throw as fast as possible, and
(5) hit the target
Throw velocity was decreased when accu-
racy was prioritized
No differences in accuracy bet-
ween instructional conditions
van den Tillaar and Ettema (2004) Players from Divisions 2 and 3 of the
Norwegian national league (n�20)
Descriptive study. Standing throw from the 7-m line Standing throw velocity: 23.291.6 m � s�1
Positive relationship between body size and
throwing performance
van den Tillaar and Ettema (2006) Two groups: Experienced players of Norwegian
Division 2 (n�9) and individuals who had
never participated in organized sports
Similar study to above Throwing performance significantly better
in experienced players
Ball velocity decreased when accuracy was
prioritized in both groups
Accuracy was not affected by instructional
condition. No velocity�accuracy trade-off
was observed
382
G.
Ziv
&R
.L
idor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
goalkeeper; and (b) throwing the ball as accurately
as possible, trying to keep it out of the reach of the
goalkeeper (van den Tillaar & Ettema, 2003). Of
these two options, the first has been discussed
thoroughly in the literature. Van Den Tillaar and
Ettema (2003) studied the influence of instruction
on both velocity and accuracy of handball players.
Players threw the ball under five conditions: (1)
throw as fast as possible; (2) throw as fast as possible
while trying to hit the target; (3) hit the target and
throw as fast as possible; (4) hit the target and try to
throw as fast as possible; and (5) hit the target. As
expected, throwing velocity decreased from Condi-
tion 1 to Condition 5. In contrast, no differences in
accuracy were observed among the conditions. In all
conditions, velocity was at least 85% of the maximal
velocity measured in Condition 1. Although velocity
was reduced to 85% of maximal throwing velocity,
accuracy did not improve. The authors suggested
that this may have been due to the high profession-
alism of the sample of handball players. However,
this explanation was refuted in another study con-
ducted by the same authors. In this study, van den
Tillaar and Ettema (2006) compared the throwing
velocity and accuracy of expert and novice players.
The novices had no previous experience in orga-
nized sports that involved throwing. Players threw
the ball under the same five conditions (1�5) as
described above (van den Tillaar & Ettema, 2003).
As expected, velocity was reduced from Condition 1
to Condition 5 in both groups. However, no
velocity�accuracy trade-off was observed in either
group. When accuracy was prioritized, as in
Conditions 3�5, velocity indeed decreased, but
accuracy did not improve. The authors suggested
that the characteristics of the task at hand were not
the cause of a velocity�accuracy trade-off, but rather
the level of skill of the players.
The fact that most studies have examined velocity
but did not look at throwing accuracy is a matter of
concern. Theoretically, it could be argued that a
threshold for throwing velocity exists, above which
increasing throwing velocity has little practical
meaning. This would be the velocity that is
faster than the fastest reaction time of a handball
goalkeeper. Once a field player has managed to
achieve this velocity, it would make more sense to
practise perfecting the accuracy of the throw at that
velocity rather than on continuing to increase
velocity. Future studies should attempt to discover
this threshold throwing velocity, based on known
neural reaction times and experimental trials.
On-court performances
Time�motion analysis is based on continuous ob-
servation of what players do during match-play.
By studying the actions that handball players per-
form during games, researchers and practitioners
(handball coaches and strength and conditioning
coaches) can better understand the physical de-
mands imposed on their players. Unfortunately,
handball studies using time�motion analyses are
rare.
Delamarche et al. (1987) assessed blood lactate
concentration and heart rate in seven Under-18
handball players during a practice game. Each
player was given an activity score based on distance
covered, frequency of ground contacts, arm move-
ments, and shots and jumps. Blood lactate was
sampled every 5 min during game play. Activity
ratings varied between players, suggesting different
intensities of play. Heart rate changed frequently
but remained within a range of 20 beats �min�1 for
each player. Maximal heart rate rose as the game
progressed. The three most active players reached
heart rates of over 190 beats �min�1 and blood
lactate concentrations of over 7.5 mmol � l�1. These
players ran for 20�30 min with blood lactate over
4.0 mmol � l�1. As the authors showed, the most
active players tolerated high lactate concentrations
for relatively long durations. It was also reported
that the increase in blood lactate stopped during the
10 min half-time break.
A cautious approach should be adopted when
interpreting blood lactate data. Lactate concentra-
tion is a consequence of lactate appearance and
disappearance. It is possible that players with low
concentrations of blood lactate actually work at
similar, or even higher, intensities than players with
high blood lactate concentrations. This can be due to
an efficient rate of lactate disappearance in those
players. The data in the study of Delamarche et al.
(1987) shows two players with the same activity
rating; however, while one player had a high heart
rate (195 beats �min�1) and high blood lactate
concentration (6.4 mmol � l�1), the other player
had a low heart rate (188 beats �min�1) and low
blood lactate concentration (4.0 mmol � l�1). These
differences suggest that while playing at similar
intensities, individuals can use aerobic and anaerobic
metabolism differently. These differences can be due
to genetic differences, different standards of fitness,
and/or other variables.
Luig et al. (2008) conducted time�motion ana-
lyses during nine games of the 2007 men’s World
Cup. The analyses were conducted using a compu-
terized match analysis system. Four movement
categories were defined in this study: walking, slow
running, fast running, and sprinting. Playing time
was significantly higher in wings (37.3792.37 min)
and goalkeepers (37.1193.28 min) than backcourt
players (29.1691.70 min) and pivots (29.379
2.70 min). Total distance covered was higher in
Physiological attributes of male handball players 383
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
wings (3710.69210.2 m) than in backcourt players
(2839.99150.6 m) and pivots (2786.99238.8 m).
As anticipated, goalkeepers covered the shortest total
distance (2058.1990.2 m). The total distance cov-
ered by field players consisted of 34.394.9% walk-
ing, 44.795.1% slow running, 17.993.5% fast
running, and 3.092.2% sprinting. Compared with
other players, wings covered significantly shorter
distances while slow running but significantly longer
distances while fast running and sprinting. As the
authors suggested, these on-court data can help
coaches plan specific strength and conditioning
programmes for individuals playing in different
positions.
Unfortunately, we could not identify studies that
examined oxygen consumption during a handball
game. This fact, in addition to the limited informa-
tion on time�motion analyses, prevents researchers
and coaches from thoroughly quantifying the phy-
siological demands imposed on handball players.
More studies in these areas are urgently required.
More specifically, these studies should include blood
lactate sampling, on-court oxygen consumption
measurements using a portable metabolic system,
and time�motion analyses focusing on specific hand-
ball actions, such as jumping, running, sprinting,
throwing, and walking.
Research concerns and testing limitations of
the studies reviewed
Based on the studies reviewed on physical character-
istics, physiological attributes, throwing velocity and
accuracy, and on-court performances of handball
players, five research concerns and testing limitations
are discussed.
1. The lack of on-court physiological data. Only two
studies (Delamarche et al., 1987; Luig et al., 2008)
examined on-court performances of male handball
players. By understanding the physical and physiolo-
gical demands of handball players during match-play,
handball coaches and strength and conditioning
coaches can effectively plan their strength and con-
ditioning programmes. More time�motion analyses
are needed to fully understand what handball players
do during games.
2. The lack of experimental/manipulative studies. Most
of the studies reviewed in this article were of a
correlative or descriptive nature, and did not include
interventional programmes (e.g. strength and con-
ditioning programmes for improving throwing velo-
city and/or throwing accuracy). The descriptive and
correlative nature of most studies implies certain
possible conclusions; they can by no means suggest
causality. In fact, correlational studies can only
provide association among variables, and cannot
entirely explain any variations in the results obtained.
Therefore, more studies should encourage implemen-
tation of conditioning programmes for agility and
speed and power and strength, with at least one
intervention/training group and one control/no train-
ing group. It is the case that some studies reviewed here
(e.g. Marques & Gonzalez-Badillo, 2006) did examine
the contribution of interventional programmes to
physiological attributes of male handball players;
however, more studies should be conducted to assess
the contribution of different training programmes to
the physical attributes of handball players.
3. The limited data on throwing accuracy. Although
some data are available on throwing velocity and its
relationship with power and strength, very little data
are available regarding throwing accuracy. This is
unfortunate, as accuracy is just as important as
velocity when handball players are attempting to
score a goal. More studies should examine throwing
accuracy, in particular the effect of different training
programmes (e.g. virtual reality, simulation, and
accuracy games) on throwing accuracy.
4. The lack of longitudinal studies. By using a long-
itudinal approach, relevant information on the devel-
opment of the physical attributes of beginning and
advanced handball players, as well as their physiolo-
gical characteristics and on-court performances, can
be collected, analysed, and interpreted.
5. The lack of studies examining handball performance
under conditions of fatigue. In real handball practice
and match-play, the players are required to perform
under fatiguing conditions. It has been shown that
high fatigue can hinder sport performance involving
endurance, rapid movements, and strength (see
Montgomery et al., 2008; Pack, 1974; Reilly, Drust,
& Clarke, 2008). Therefore, different protocols for
tests assessing physical abilities under fatiguing
conditions should be used in handball studies.
Conditioning for team handball: Practical
suggestions for handball coaches and strength
and conditioning coaches
Based on the studies reviewed, five practical sugges-
tions are offered to handball coaches and strength
and conditioning coaches who work with male
handball players:
1. Power and strength exercises should be empha-
sized in conditioning programmes, as they are
associated with both sprint performance and
throwing velocity and can distinguish between
amateur and elite handball players. However, it
384 G. Ziv & R. Lidor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
should be noted that strength training with
heavy loads and slow movements can hinder
vertical jump performance (Gorostiaga et al.,
1999). Coaches should keep in mind the con-
cept of specificity in training and base their
conditioning programmes on performance goals
for individual players. In a review of throwing
velocity, van den Tillaar (2004) suggested that
specific resistance training with underweight
balls can be effective in increasing throwing
velocity in highly experienced players.
2. Specific speed and agility drills should be
implemented in conditioning programmes.
Gorostiaga et al. (2006) showed that sprinting
performance did not improve over a season
when specific drills were not provided. Sprint
training should be specific to the on-court
sprint demands of handball players.
3. Specificity is of great importance when planning
a strength and conditioning programme. If
players are expected to run faster, sprint training
should be implemented. If wings are expected to
jump as high as possible above the defenders’
hands in order to throw, explosive-type power
training should be implemented. Handball
players in different positions should practise
those feats which they are required to perform.
4. Strength and conditioning programmes should
be developed according to data collected from
time�motion analyses. The specific strength
and conditioning programme developed for a
given handball team should reflect the data
collected on the performances of that team
during match-play. In addition, strength and
conditioning programmes should be developed
according to the individual playing positions
and skill of the handball players.
5. A careful approach to the selection of (a) testing
devices, (b) test protocols, and (c) testing
phases should be adopted by handball and
strength and conditioning coaches. The tests
selected should primarily help coaches asses
both the physical/physiological state of the
players and their skill mastery at a specific
phase of the training programme (i.e. prepara-
tion, competition or transition phase). Coaches
should be aware of the various tests performed
in the studies as well as of their specific
objectives and emphases, so that they will be
able to select the ones that provide them with
the most relevant and useful information.
References
Aagaard, P., Simonsen, E. B., Trolle, M., Bangsbo, J., & Klausen,
K. (1994). Effects of different strength training regimes on
moment and power generation during dynamic knee extensions.
European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational
Physiology, 69, 382�386.
Asci, A., & Acikada, C. (2007). Power production among different
sports with similar maximum strength. Journal of Strength and
Conditioning Research, 21, 10�16.
Barata, J. (1992). Changes in ball velocity in the handball free
throw, induced by two different speed-strength training pro-
grams. Portuguese Journal of Human Performance Studies, 8,
45�55.
Bayios, I. A., Anastasopoulou, E. M., Sioudris, D. S., & Boudolos,
K. D. (2001). Relationship between isokinetic strength of the
internal and external shoulder rotators and ball velocity in team
handball. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 41,
229�235.
Bonifazi, M., Bosco, C., Colli, R., Lodi, L., Lupo, C., Massai, L.,
et al. (2001). Glucocorticoid receptors in human peripheral
blood mononuclear cells in relation to explosive performance in
elite handball players. Life Sciences, 69, 961�968.
Buchheit, M., Lepretre, P. M., Behaegel, A. L., Millet, G. P.,
Cuvelier, G., & Ahmaidi, S. (2009). Cardiorespiratory re-
sponses during running and sport-specific exercises in handball
players. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 12, 399�405.
Clanton, R. E., & Dwight, M. P. (1997). Team handball: Steps to
success. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
Delamarche, P., Gratas, A., Beillot, J., Dassonville, J.,
Rochcongar, P., & Lessard, Y. (1987). Extent of lactic
anaerobic metabolism in handballers. International Journal of
Sports Medicine, 8, 55�59.
Fleck, S. J., Smith, S. L., Craib, M. W., Denahan, T., Snow, R. E.,
& Mitchell, M. L. (1992). Upper extremity isokinetic torque
and throwing velocity in team handball. Journal of Applied Sport
Science Research, 6, 120�124.
Gorostiaga, E. M., Granados, C., Ibanez, J., Gonzalez-Badillo, J.
J., & Izquierdo, M. (2006). Effects of an entire season on
physical fitness changes in elite male handball players. Medicine
and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38, 357�366.
Gorostiaga, E. M., Granados, C., Ibanez, J., & Izquierdo, M.
(2005). Differences in physical fitness and throwing velocity
among elite and amateur male handball players. International
Journal of Sports Medicine, 26, 225�232.
Gorostiaga, E. M., Izquierdo, M., Iturralde, P., Ruesta, M., &
Ibanez, J. (1999). Effects of heavy resistance training on
maximal and explosive force production, endurance and serum
hormones in adolescent handball players. European Journal of
Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology, 80, 485�493.
Izquierdo, M., Hakkinen, K., Gonzalez-Badillo, J. J., Ibanez, J., &
Gorostiaga, E. M. (2002). Effects of long-term training
specificity on maximal strength and power of the upper and
lower extremities in athletes from different sports. European
Journal of Applied Physiology, 87, 264�271.
Luig, P., Manchado Lopez, C., Pers, J., Perse, M., Kristan, M.,
Schander, I. et al. (2008). Motion characteristics according to
playing positions in international men’s team handball. Com-
munication to the Annual Congress of the European College of
Sport Science, Estoril, Portugal.
Malina, R. M., Bouchard, C., & Bar-Or, O. (2004). Growth,
maturation, and physical activity (2nd edn.). Champaign, IL:
Human Kinetics.
Malina, R. M., Meleski, B. W., & Shoup, R. F. (1982).
Anthropometric, body composition, and maturity characteris-
tics of selected school-age athletes. Pediatric Clinics of North
America, 29, 1305�1323.
Marczinka, Z. (1993). Playing handball: A comprehensive study of
the game. Budapest: International Handball Federation.
Marques, M. C., & Gonzalez-Badillo, J. J. (2006). In-season
resistance training and detraining in professional team handball
players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 20,
563�571.
Physiological attributes of male handball players 385
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
Marques, M. C., van den Tillaar, R., Vescovi, J. D., & Gonzalez-
Badillo, J. J. (2007). Relationship between throwing velocity,
muscle power, and bar velocity during bench press in elite
handball players. International Journal of Sports Physiology and
Performance, 2, 414�422.
Montgomery, P. G., Pyne, D. B., Hopkins, W. G., Dorman, J. C.,
Cook, K., & Minahan, C. L. (2008). The effect of recovery
strategies on physical performance and cumulative fatigue in
competitive basketball. Journal of Sports Sciences, 26,
1135�1145.
Noutsos, K., Nassis, G., Vareltis, I., Kororos, P., Skoufas, D., &
Bayios, I. (2008). Physiological and anthropometric character-
istics of elite junior handball players. Communication to the
Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science, Estoril,
Portugal.
Pack, M. (1974). Effects of four fatigue levels on performance and
learning of novel dynamic balance skill. Journal of Motor
Behavior, 6, 191�197.
Powers, S. K., & Howley, E. T. (2001). Exercise physiology: Theory
and application to fitness and performance (7th edn.). New York:
McGraw-Hill.
Ramadan, J., Hasan, A., & Barac-Nieto, M. (1999). Physiological
profiles of Kuwait national team-handball and soccer players.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 31, S257.
Reilly, T., Drust, B., & Clarke, N. (2008). Muscle fatigue during
football match-play. Sports Medicine, 38, 357�367.
Thorlund, J. B., Michalsik, L. B., Madsen, K., & Aagaard, P.
(2007). Acute fatigue-induced changes in muscle mechanical
properties and neuromuscular activity in elite handball players
following a handball match. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine
and Science in Sports, 18, 462�472.
Tyson, P., & Turman, J. (Eds.) (1983). The handball book. New
York: Leisure Press.
van den Tillaar, R. (2004). Effect of different training programs
on the velocity of overarm throwing: A brief review. Journal of
Strength and Conditioning Research, 18, 388�396.
van den Tillaar, R., & Ettema, G. (2003). Influence of instruction
on velocity and accuracy of overarm throwing. Perceptual and
Motor Skills, 96, 423�434.
van den Tillaar, R., & Ettema, G. (2004). Effect of body size and
gender on overarm throwing performance. European Journal of
Applied Physiology, 91, 413�418.
van den Tillaar, R., & Ettema, G. (2006). A comparison between
novices and experts of the velocity�accuracy trade-off in over-
arm throwing. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 103, 503�514.
Whaley, M. H., Brubaker, P. H., & Otto, R. M. (Eds.) (2006).
ACSM’s guidelines for exercise testing and prescription (7th edn.).
Baltimore, MD: American College of Sports Medicine.
Ziv, G., & Lidor, R. (2009). Physical attributes, physiological
characteristics, on-court performances, and nutritional strate-
gies of female and male basketball players: A review. Sports
Medicine, 39, 547�568.
386 G. Ziv & R. Lidor
Downloaded By: [Zinman College for Physical Education and Sport Sciences in] At: 17:58 10 November 2009
Top Related