Associations between arm span, upper and lower limb power, and ball throwing speed in Goalball athletes

Despite the recent significant growth of Goalball, few studies investigate the anthropometric and performance variables of athletes. The aim of this study was to analyze associations between anthropometric parameters, upper and lower limb power, and ball throwing speed in Goalball athletes. Fourteen athletes from the sport had their height, body mass, and arm span measured; performed upper and lower limb muscle power tests; and had their ball throwing speed recorded. Associations between the variables were analyzed using linear regression. It was observed that lower limb power plays a significant role in ball speed during both frontal and spinning throws. Arm span also influenced throwing speed, but exclusively in frontal throws. Further studies on this subject are suggested, to enable physical trainers and coaches in the sport can plan their actions based on evidence.