The Landing Biomechanics in Youth Female Handball Players Does Not Change When Applying a Specific Model of Game and Weekly Training Workload

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the effects of competitive match play and subsequent training during typical competitive microcycle on landing biomechanics in female youth handball players. A group of 11 elite female youth players (age: 14.3 ± 0.6 years; stature: 165.9 ± 8.1 cm; body mass: 58.4 ± 10.6 kg; maturity offset: 0.4 ± 0.8 years) were tested prior to a competitive match, immediately after the match, 48 h after the match, 96 h after the match, and before the next match. The players performed two analyzed trials of a single leg (preferred) counter movement jump. The “Landing Error Scoring System” (LESS) was used to analyze the participants’ landing biomechanics. Results: There was no significant effect of a competitive handball match on LESS (Z = 0.28; p = 0.78). No statistically significant difference in LESS was found between the first and the last measurement (Z = 1.01; p = 0.31). No significant main effect of time was found for landing biomechanics in the observed eight-day period (χ2 = 4.02; p = 0.40). The results of the study indicate that a model of weekly loading during in-season, including competitive match play, does not decrease lower limb biomechanics during landing and does not contribute to an increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury in female youth handball players during a competitive microcycle.

Keywords

• fatigue
• landing error scoring system
• injury
• ACL
• risk factor
• maturation