The Effect of Anaerobic Exercises on Selected Physical Abilities of Handball Players

Abstract

The importance of the present study lies in the necessity of emphasizing the development of physical abilities among young handball players, as such development is believed to yield significant positive outcomes in both the technical and training dimensions of performance. The preparation of a set of anaerobic exercises specifically designed for handball, which simulate actual game situations involving two or three players, represents an effective approach to enhancing players’ overall efficiency. Attaining a high level of physical abilities reflects a combination of strength and speed that enables the athlete to perform sports activities successfully.Based on the researcher’s observations of matches, in addition to personal interviews conducted with several experts and coaches, it was noted that there is a decline in the level of physical performance among young handball players. This issue motivated the researcher to design anaerobic training exercises in order to examine their role in developing selected physical abilities. Consequently, the research problem is articulated in the following question: What is the effect of anaerobic training exercises on certain physical abilities of young handball players? The purpose of this study is twofold: first, to design anaerobic training exercises intended to improve selected physical abilities of young handball players, and second, to identify the differential impact of these exercises by comparing the experimental and control groups with respect to the targeted physical variables. To achieve this purpose, the experimental method employing a two-group design (experimental and control) was adopted, as it is most appropriate for the nature of the research. The population of the study consisted of twenty players from Al-Kufa Sports Club, out of which a purposive sample of sixteen players was selected to form the main experimental sample. The players were randomly divided by lot into two equivalent groups, experimental and control. The variables under investigation were determined following a comprehensive review of relevant scientific literature and subsequently validated by a panel of experts and specialists to ensure their suitability for the research problem.The findings of the study revealed that the anaerobic training program played a decisive role in enhancing the targeted physical abilities. The program contributed to the improvement of motor qualities directly associated with anaerobic endurance, including speed-strength of the upper and lower limbs, coordination, agility, and speed endurance. Furthermore, the exercises were effective in developing defensive endurance, enabling players to sustain defensive efficiency throughout prolonged periods of play. In addition, a notable improvement was observed in offensive performance, particularly in terms of rapid responsiveness and accuracy under conditions of fatigue.In light of these findings, the study recommends that anaerobic training exercises be adopted as a fundamental component of the preparation process for young handball players, given their comprehensive and integrated impact. It further recommends that intensive training units be allocated for the development of physical abilities, especially during phases of specific preparation and official competitions. Finally, the study emphasizes the necessity of adjusting the intensity, duration, and repetitions of training exercises according to individual differences among players in order to achieve the highest possible training outcomes.