Correlations between anthropometric measurements and sport specific field-based tests in sitting volleyball

Abstract

Introduction: Sitting volleyball is a Paralympic sport widely known for being a game of speed, agility, performance, and endurance. While many fitness tests can be used to assess specificity of sport, the combination of field tests and anthropometric measurements can provide an in depth look into sitting volleyball. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to see if there are any correlations between anthropometric parameters and field tests within the game of sitting volleyball. Methods: Upon completion of the informed consent document, the participant's demographic and anthropometric measurements were assessed by the researchers. Additionally, the participants completed an assigned survey. Lastly, all athletes were asked to complete the sports-specific field tests in a gymnasium setting. The tests were performed by the U.S. Women's Paralympic sitting volleyball athletes. The specific tests administered were: handgrip (HG) analysis, the seated chest press test (SCP), speed & agility test (SAT), as well as a speed & endurance test (SET). Results: According to the Pearson correlation coefficient test, there were significant correlations between the athlete's height and spike position (r = 0.853, p = 0.031). Other significant correlations found were between handgrip and chest pass (Watts) (r = 0.913, p = 0.011), which was measured using time and distance from the seated chest pass test, as well as blocking position and the speed and agility test (r = 0.888, p = 0.044), and blocking position and the speed and endurance test (r = 0.93, p = 0.022). The strongest correlation was shown between speed and agility and the speed and endurance tests (r = 0.964, p = 0.008). Discussion: The aim of the present study was to identify correlations between sport specific field-based tests and anthropometric measurements. Anthropometric measurements and non-laboratory field tests specific to sitting volleyball can be useful for the coaching staff to determine which player is best suited for a specific position and the athletes' overall performance on the court. The main findings from the present study were significant correlations with the athletes' height and spike position, hand grip strength and chest pass power, blocking position and SAT, blocking position and SET, and SAT and SET.