EFFECTS OF THE COMPETITIVE SEASON ON THE ISOKINETIC MUSCLE PARAMETERS CHANGES IN WORLD-CLASS HANDBALL PLAYERS

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the competitive season on isokinetic muscular parameters of the lower limbs in world-class handball players. Nineteen, male, world-class, handball players (age, 26.6 +/- 5.4 years) participated in the study. Two bilateral isokinetic tests of knee joint flexors (H; hamstring) and extensors (Q; quadriceps) were performed in the beginning and end of the competitive season to determine the peak torque (PT), the mean power, and agonist-antagonist ratio, dominant-nondominant ratio (DNDR), and combined ratio. The results showed a significant decrease in PT values at low angular velocity (60 degrees.s(-1)) in concentric mode for Q on dominant leg (p < 0.001). The other PT values for dominant and nondominant legs at low and high angular velocities (240 degrees.s(-1)) and in eccentric mode (30 degrees.s(-1)) were not significantly different for Q and H. For mean power, values did not change at 60 degrees.s(-1). At 240 degrees.s(-1), we found a significant decrease in H for dominant leg (p < 0.001) but not for nondominant leg. In eccentric mode, the results showed a significant increase on both legs (p < 0.001). For the ratios, values significantly decreased for DNDR at 60 degrees.s(-1) for Q (p < 0.03) and for agonist/antagonist ratio at 240 degrees.s(-1) for the dominant leg (p < 0.01). The present results highlight the importance of integrating regular strength training sessions during the competitive season in world-class handball players. Accordingly, this study should help trainers to modify their planning to maximize strength and power qualities of the lower limbs of their players in addition to avoiding injuries.