The Relationship Between Selected Anthropometric Measurements and the Accuracy of Overhead Strokes among Players of the Specialized Center at Al-Mahawil Badminton Club

Abstract

The research problem lies in the important and fundamental role played by the anthropometric measurements of players in achieving good results, as studying the relationship between these two important variables—namely, anthropometric measurements and their relation to skill performance (skill)—provides positive indicators regarding the accuracy and proficiency of performance, clarifies areas of strength and weakness, and assesses the suitability of these measurements and their relationship to the achievement of that skill. This study aims to identify some anthropometric measurements of the players at the Specialised Centre of Al-Mahawil Club in badminton and to understand the nature of the relationship between certain anthropometric measurements and the accuracy of overhead shots among the players at the Specialised Centre of Al-Mahawil Club in badminton. The researcher assumes the existence of a significant correlation between certain anthropometric measurements and the accuracy of overhead smashes among players at the specialised centre of Al-Mahawil Club in badminton. The researcher employed a descriptive analytical method and correlation studies due to their suitability and the nature of the research problem. The sample consisted of 12 players from the specialised badminton centre at the training facility in Babylon, representing the entire research population. The researcher conducted a pilot study on five members of the research sample, aiming to identify potential obstacles that might arise during the research procedures. Additionally, before conducting the field experiment, the researcher ensured the efficiency and validity of the equipment used, as well as trained the team on the nature of the application and the control of the testing procedures related to the video recording device. After reviewing the preliminary results obtained from the pilot experiment. The researcher conducted the main experiment inside a closed hall in the Al-Mahawil area, after completing all the anthropometric measurements related to the research topic. The sample individuals were subjected to these measurements before proceeding to perform the technical test of the front drop shot. The researcher concluded that there is a correlation between the anthropometric measurements and the accuracy of the drop shot among the research sample individuals. It was shown that the most influential measurements on accuracy are arm length and total height among the sample individuals. Additionally, a correlation was found between the anthropometric measurements and the accuracy of the smash shot for the sample individuals, with arm length, total height, and mass being the most influential measurements on accuracy. The researcher recommends selecting players according to the physical measurements required by the activity (mass, total height, leg length) due to their effective role in achieving the technical conditions and skill requirements in badminton.