SPORTS SCIENCE AND HEALTH

ASH Test and Serve Velocity in Elite Volleyball Players

Konstantinos Stratakis — 2026-04-30

The Athletic Shoulder (ASH) test is a novel assessment designed to measure the isometric force-time characteristics of the shoulder joint at three angles of abduction: 180° (I), 135° (Y), and 90° (T). Despite its increasing popularity, there is limited evidence linking this test to sport-specific tasks in overhead sports. This study aimed to provide normative data on peak isometric force during the ASH test and to examine its association with jump serve ball velocity in elite male volleyball players. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 13 athletes. Peak isometric force in the I, Y, and T positions was measured using force plates, while jump serve ball velocity was assessed with a radar gun. The average peak force recorded during the ASH test was as follows: 199.15 ± 26.42 N in the I position, 193.38 ± 31.75 N in the Y position, and 173.69 ± 35.42 N in the T position. We found a weak positive, not statistically significant correlation between jump serve ball velocity and the peak isometric force produced in the I position (r=0.17, p=0.574) and weak negative, not significant correlations between jump serve ball velocity and the peak isometric force produced in the Y and T positions (r=-0.28, p=0.357 and r=-0.29, p=0.344). The univariate linear regression analysis showed no significant association between jump serve ball velocity and peak isometric force generated in any of the aforementioned positions: I (F=0.34, p=0.574), Y (F=0.91, p=0.357), or T (F=0.98, p=0.344). Our findings indicate that the peak isometric force produced in the ASH test is not a determinant of jump serve ball velocity in volleyball.

Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Integrated Bow Press and Draw Board System on Compoud Bow Precision

Nur Indah Atifah Anwar — 2026-04-30

Introduction: archery, particularly in the compound division, requires precise tuning of bowstring systems to achieve consistent shot accuracy. improper adjustment of string tension and cam synchronization often reduces performance even in skilled archers. Objective: the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the bow press and draw board all-in-one system in improving the precision of compound bow string alignment and shooting accuracy. Methodology: the research adopted an experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach involving six trained university-level archers. participants practiced for four weeks using the integrated tuning system, and data on string precision were collected before and after the intervention. paired sample t-test analysis was used to determine the significance of improvements. Results: results indicated a significant increase in mean string precision scores (p < 0.05) after training, with an average improvement of 20.1 %. qualitative observations confirmed better postural stability, smoother release, and more consistent arrow grouping. Discussion: findings align with previous biomechanical studies that emphasize the influence of equipment tuning and postural control on archery performance. the integration of mechanical and digital feedback in the all-in-one system reduces alignment errors and enhances training efficiency. Conclusions: the bow press and draw board all-in-one system proved to be an effective, safe, and accessible tool to improve compound bow precision, supporting both athletic performance and coaching practice.

Career Patterns in National Youth Basketball Teams

Hrvoje Ajman — 2026-04-30

This study examines the trends and factors influencing the performance and career trajectories of players within the National men’s senior basketball team from Croatia. The research analyzes data from 189 Croatian youth national team players born between 1992 and 2003, who competed in major international tournaments between 2008 and 2022. Key factors such as the player’s year of birth, the number of appearances for youth national teams (U16 to U20), and the senior A-team are explored. The findings reveal important insights into the structure of Croatian basketball talent development, the role of continuity and consistency, and the impact of international competition experience. Data on the duration of the players’ representative careers shows that the majority of careers lasted one year (40.2%), followed by two or three-year careers (54%), with four or five-year careers being the least common (less than 5%). Statistical tests reveal moderate to significant relationships between career duration, career type and appearances for the senior national team. Binary logistic regression results indicate a positive correlation between participation in youth categories (U18, U19, and U20) and senior team appearances, with the strongest association seen for U19 World Championship participants.This study also highlights the significance of long-term career trajectories in shaping successful transitions to senior teams.

Correlation Between Internet Addiction and Physical Activity Among Yogyakarta State University Students: The Mediating Role of Sleep Quality

Muhammad Salman — 2026-04-30

Internet addiction has become an increasingly prevalent concern among university students, adversely affecting various aspects of their quality of life. Overusing the internet is associated with sedentary behaviour, poor sleep quality and less physical activity, which could adversely impact students’ health in general. The present study was conducted to investigate the correlation of internet addiction with physical activity in Yogyakarta State University’s students because of sleep quality mediation. Quantitative cross-sectional design was used with purposive sampling of 210 respondents. Standardized questionnaires were administered, including the Internet Addiction (IA), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Path analysis and the Sobel test were used to analyse data from a mediation view. According to the results, there is a significant negative correlation between internet addiction and physical activity (t = -8.225, p < 0.05) and between internet addiction and sleep quality (t = -7.86, p < 0.05). Physical activity was highly positively associated with sleep quality (t = 8.34, p < 0.05). Additionally, the Sobel test (Z = -8.31, p < 0.05) showed that the mediating role of sleep quality in the association between internet addiction and physical activity was significant. These findings highlight the need for interventions in healthy use and sleep behaviour designed to enhance physical activity among students and overall well-being.

Correlation of Physical Activity, Risk of Eating Disorder, and Body Composition in Young Female Students

Olivera Pilipović Spasojević — 2026-04-30

Introduction: Body composition, physical activity, and the risk of eating disorders play a specific role in shaping the health of young female students during their first year of university, a period in which they develop autonomy, self-regulation, social interaction, and learning skills. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between physical activity levels, body composition, and the risk of eating disorders among female students aged 19–21 years at the University of Banja Luka. Methodology: A cross-sectional epidemiological observational study included a representative sample of 408 healthy female students with a mean age of 20.5 years. Data were collected using a brief sociodemographic questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), and the OMRON BF 511 digital medical device for body composition assessment.Results: The majority of participants (76.2%) were classified as highly physically active. Participants displayed ideal body composition parameters: BMI 22.1 ± 3.2, body fat percentage 31.80 ± 6.47%, and skeletal muscle percentage 28.15 ± 2.81%, while 16.7% of participants were at risk for eating disorders. Correlation analyses between EAT-26 subscales—Dieting, Bulimia, and Oral Control and total IPAQ physical activity scores showed no statistically significant associations. ROC analysis confirmed that BMI, body fat percentage, and visceral fat percentage are not reliable for detecting individuals at risk for eating disorders. Conclusion: Understanding the relationships between body composition components, eating disorders, and physical activity levels is essential for planning effective strategies to promote and prevent psycho-physical health issues and ensure the well-being of young female students. This requires ongoing evaluation and research into biopsychosocial factors.

Development of a Web-Based Sporting Event Management Information System for the East Java NPCI

Dwi Kartiko — 2026-04-30

The participation of disabled athletes in sporting events faces barriers such as the lack of inclusive and efficient information system management. The East Java NPCI requires digital media to support the registration, validation, scheduling, and real-time reporting of competition results. This study aims to develop and evaluate a web-based championship information system for East Java NPCI using ADDIE development model. Research and Development with five ADDIE stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation were performed. The sample consisted of two experts and ninety-three East Java NPCI coaches. Data were collected through interviews, observations, documentation, and questionnaires. Analyses used descriptive statistics, validity and reliability tests (factor analysis), and gender-based t-tests. The feasibility test results indicated an average score of 89% for the experts (very feasible category). User evaluations obtained an average perception score of 4.12 out of 5 (excellent category). Four aspects of the system —usability, customisation, access speed, and content— were found to be valid and reliable. No substantial difference existed between male and female coaches in rating the quality of the system which indicates that the system can be utilised fairly and equally by all users, without gender bias. The web-based information system for East Java NPCI is considered effective and feasible for managing disability sports championship in East Java, with potential for replication in other regions.

Differences in Several Coordination and Precision Tests in 11-year-old Children from Kosovo

Shemsedin Vehapi — 2026-04-30

Coordination abilities are among the most significant components of a child’s motor development, with the greatest rate of growth between 7-11 years of age. This study aims to compare the difference between boys and girls on several different coordination and precision tasks among 177 children aged 11 in Kosovo (83 boys and 94 girls) using a cross-sectional design through the administration of standardized coordinated movement (i.e. rectangular run, side steps, dribbling slalom) and precision tasks (i.e. targeting accuracy, kicking & throwing). Independent-samples t-test indicates that there are significant differences between boys and girls concerning basic agility and applied ball-control tasks. Boys were found to complete the rectangular run (t = -3.05, p = 0.003) and side steps (t = -3.01, p = 0.003) more quickly than girls, demonstrating higher levels of applied coordination for both the hand (t = -5.38, p = 0.001) and foot dribbling slalom (t = -8.25, p = 0.001). In addition, boys exhibited greater performance on all short-stick targeting tasks (t = 3.17, p = 0.002), horizontal throwing with a run-up (t = 2.52, p = 0.013) and kicking at the goal with a run-up (t = 6.24, p = 0.001) than girls. However, there were no significant differences between the sexes on general coordination tasks that do not require the use of a ball. Results suggest that differences between boys and girls at age 11 are task-specific and that differences in movement experience seem to account for these differences rather than general neuromotor maturity.

Evaluation of Men’s Volleyball Performance Development in the Special Region of Yogyakarta

Fauzi Fauzi — 2026-04-30

Volleyball, both indoor and beach, is one of the world’s most popular sports and has grown significantly in Indonesia, particularly in Yogyakarta. Athlete development is essential not only for enhancing performance but also for shaping character and strengthening regional competitiveness. In Indonesia, schools, clubs, local governments, and the Indonesian Volleyball Association (PBVSI) share responsibility for talent identification and coaching in line with national policy (Law No. 11/2022). Despite structured programs, organizational strengthening, and regional development centers, challenges remain, especially regarding infrastructure, funding, and policy gaps. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the development of volleyball in Yogyakarta and identify strategies for improvement to restore competitiveness at the national level. The CIPP (Context, Input, Process, Product) evaluation model by Stufflebeam was employed for its comprehensive nature, assessing not only outcomes but also the initial context, available resources, and program implementation. The study involved 49 volleyball club coaches across five districts and cities.
Findings show that while the program has produced promising young athletes, weaknesses persist in objectives, facilities, funding, and execution. Coaching goals remain unclear, infrastructure and financial support are limited, and incentives for athletes are suboptimal, although monitoring is relatively stronger. Achievements at the regional level have been evident, yet national success remains difficult to achieve. To address these barriers, improvements in strategic planning, investment, infrastructure, transparent funding, and monitoring are crucial. Furthermore, the SPLISS framework emphasizes that sustainable elite performance requires not only athlete talent but also integrated policy support across financial, organizational, and developmental domains.

Exploring Learning Barriers and Student Participation in University Basketball Classes: A Preliminary Study

Rickadesti Ramadhana — 2026-04-30

This study aims to explore learning barriers and student participation in basketball practice courses within the Sports Science Study Program at Universitas PGRI Yogyakarta (UPY). A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, utilizing observation and in-depth interviews with one lecturer and six students who had completed the basketball course in the 2024 academic year. The research was conducted in January 2025 and analyzed using a thematic analysis method. The findings reveal that the course was implemented in accordance with the Semester Learning Plan through a cooperative learning model. However, several barriers were identified, including lack of student focus, delayed task submissions, unexplained absences, and low learning motivation among students with limited interest in basketball. Differences in prior playing experience also influenced students’ participation levels. The lecturer actively provided feedback and implemented game-based learning, yet further innovation toward more adaptive and engaging learning models is needed to enhance student motivation and learning outcomes.

Improving Gross Motor Skills in Early Childhood: Through Aquatic Games and Coconut Shell Stilt Walking in Terms of Balance

Khairani Faizah — 2026-04-30

This research is based on the low level of aggressive motor skills in early childhood. This research aims to analyze: (1) the comparative effects of aquatic games and coconut shell stilts on the improvement of aggressive motor skills in early childhood. (2) The comparative effects of children with high and low balance on the improvement of aggressive motor skills in early childhood. (3) The interaction between aquatic games and coconut shell stilts in terms of balance on the increase in aggressive motor skills in early childhood. The research method used was an experiment with a 2 x 2 factorial design. The results showed that: (1) There was a significant difference in the effect of aquatic games and coconut shell stilts on the increase in aggressive motor skills, with a significance value of p < 0.05. The aquatic play model group performed better than the coconut shell stilts play model group in improving aggressive motor skills, with a posttest average difference of 1.2. (2) There is a difference in the effect between children with high and low balance on the improvement of aggressive motor skills in early childhood, with a significance value of p < 0.05. Children with large balance abilities were better than children with low balance abilities, with a posttest mean difference in aggressive motor skills of 1.8. (3) There is an interaction between aquatic game models and coconut shell stilts in terms of balance (high and low) on the increase in aggressive motor skills in children aged dni, with a significance value of p 0.000 < 0.05. Finally, it shows that the aquatic game model is a more efficient game model for children with high balance, and the coconut shell game model is more efficient for children with low balance.

Improving Physical Fitness of Pencak Silat Athletes Through Circuit Body Weight Training

Ali Mardius — 2026-04-30

Pencak Silat, a traditional Indonesian martial art, requires athletes to demonstrate a combination of strength, muscular endurance, agility, and cardiovascular endurance. While skill acquisition and tactical drills have traditionally been the focus of training, physical conditioning remains a critical component for optimal performance. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a circuit bodyweight training program on the physical fitness components of Pencak Silat athletes. A total of 64 participants completed a 16-session high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program designed to improve strength, endurance, agility, and cardiovascular fitness. Pre- and post-test assessments were conducted using leg dynamometer tests for strength, push-up tests for muscular endurance, a fleximeter for agility, and an 800-meter run for cardiovascular endurance. The results demonstrated significant improvements in strength (p < 0.001), muscular endurance (p < 0.001), and agility (p = 0.022), with large effect sizes. However, cardiovascular endurance showed a slight decrease (p < 0.001), which may reflect a shift in focus toward anaerobic conditioning. The findings suggest that circuit bodyweight training can effectively enhance athletic performance in Pencak Silat by improving strength, muscular endurance, and agility while complementing traditional skill-based training. These results highlight the value of integrating circuit training into Pencak Silat conditioning programs, providing a balanced physical foundation for athletes. The study provides empirical evidence for coaches and sports practitioners to implement evidence-based training methodologies in combat sports to ensure optimal athlete development.

Metric Characteristics of a Short Scale for Self-assessment of Students’ Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Vladan Vođević — 2026-04-30

With the aim of determining the metric characteristics of the adapted research instrument, applied in the process of detecting students’ perception of the quality of life after the period of closure of cities, institutions, schools, institutions of different profiles, i.e. measures to restrict movement and “live” social interaction during the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 corona virus, its statistical valorization was performed. The questionnaire, which is based on the assessment scale for the quality of life among the student population (PQL-S), was tested through two statistical procedures: (1) checking its internal agreement (Scale Reliability Analysis) based on Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient values; and (2) factor analysis (Principal Components Analysis, with the Direct Oblimin method of rotation). The research sample consisted of students of the Academy of Applied Studies in Belgrade (n = 1260). The results indicate good metric characteristics for the short twelve-item scale, demonstrating satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s α = .806). The scale also showed good validity, supported by a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of .805 and a significant Bartlett’s test of sphericity (p < .001). Furthermore, application of the validated scale revealed a significant decline in students’ self-assessed quality of life in the post-pandemic period (p < .001). Statistical conclusions were made with a significance level of 0.05 (p < .05). The application of the validated scale revealed a significant decline in students’ quality of life perceptions in the post-pandemic period. The good metric characteristics of the instrument represent a quality basis for its possible application within the student population.

Physical Activity and Cognitive Development: The Mediating Role of Body Awareness in Academic Achievement

Maria Giovanna Tafuri — 2026-04-30

The relationship between physical activity, body awareness, and academic success has become an emerging focus of educational and cognitive research. Building on the theoretical framework of embodied cognition, this study examined whether structured physical activity enhances students’ body awareness and academic performance. A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-intervention assessments was implemented with 260 university students enrolled in Sport Sciences. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 130), which completed a 12-week physical activity program (two 60-minute sessions per week), and a control group (n = 130), which continued regular academic activities. Outcomes were measured using the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) and official academic grades. Statistical analyses included Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), ANCOVA, t-tests, and Pearson’s correlations. The intervention produced significant improvements in both body awareness and academic performance. ANCOVA results indicated medium-to-large effects (BAQ: partial η² = 0.16; grades: partial η² = 0.13), and independent t-tests confirmed significant group differences (p < .001). A positive correlation (r = .44, p < .001) was found between BAQ scores and academic grades, suggesting that higher body awareness is associated with better academic achievement. The findings demonstrate that structured physical activity enhances students’ bodily self-awareness, which in turn supports cognitive focus, self-regulation, and academic success. These results highlight the importance of embodied education as a pedagogical approach that integrates physical and cognitive dimensions of learning. Incorporating mindful movement practices into university curricula may thus represent an effective strategy to promote both academic excellence and holistic student well-being.

Play in Sports Training: Empirical Evidence on ITS Motivational, Educational, and Psychophysical Role

Giuseppe Di Lascio — 2026-04-30

Play is a crucial element in motor development and in the structuring of effective training protocols. Its integration into motor and sports activities can positively influence athletes’ performance, mental and physical well-being, and personal satisfaction, promoting a more balanced and rewarding sporting practice. However, despite the literature emphasizing the value of play, it is often overlooked or absent in training programs. The aim of the study is to analyze the impact of the playful component in motor and sports activities, assessing its influence on the motivation, engagement, and psychophysical development of participants. Twenty-seven subjects belonging to three age groups (10–15, 16–30, over 30 years) were involved. A questionnaire structured in three sections (profiling, time spent playing, perceptions) was administered. The data were analyzed using the Chi-square (χ²) test to identify any significant relationships. 81.7% of the sample considers play to be an essential element for successful training. Over 50% suggest increasing the time dedicated to play. Two significant relationships emerged: between competitive activity and the importance attributed to play (P = .046) and between the educational/psychophysical value of sport and preference for an increase in play time (P = .018). The results highlight the importance of integrating play into training planning, emphasizing the multifunctional role of sport in promoting athletes’ well-being, motivation, and personal development.

Pre-game Decision-Making by a Handball Coach -Using the qualitative and quantitative methods

Stefan Janković — 2026-04-30

Different decision-making models are used in various areas of human life, however no area relies as much on analytical data as professional sports. The perceived opportunities and problems are the key factors that heavily influence the decision-making process itself. This especially applies to sport coaches and their ability to make proper strategy-related decision ahead of the next match their teams will face. The development of the sports industry, its importance, both at the national and global level, requires these decisions be made analytically and rationally, that is, to avoid making intuitive decisions whenever possible. One of the ways to achieve this is to utilize the SWOT method. The present research was carried out in five stages, which were supposed to determine, by means of utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, the radical and key goals of a handball team facing the next opponent. The sample of the study was a handball match between Denmark and Croatia played at the European Championship in Hungary in 2022. In the first stages of the research, the key strengths and weaknesses of both teams were determined using quantitative methods, followed by the qualitative Analytic Hierarchy Process method, which made the comparison between the teams possible viable. The obtained results were then assessed by means of the Denmark and Croatia National Team Factors Evaluation. The final results were then displayed using the Denmark-Croatia Matrix. The decision on the strategy for the upcoming match was made using the TOWS Matrix. We have come up with five identified goals, one of which, should it be fulfilled, would eventually lead the national team of Denmark to the victory. The final score, alongside with the entire analysis, have provided justification for the decision-making model used therein.

Sex-Based Differences in Body Composition Parameters Among 16-Year-Olds Using BIA

Ardita Pireva — 2026-04-30

This research analyzes the differences in body composition between adolescents aged 16 from Kosovo and the relationships between major anthropometric and physiological properties between boys and girls aged 16. In total, 84 females and 64 males were selected through a simple random sampling method to be part of the sample. Body composition was analyzed by performing a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) on each member of the sample, while the statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, normality testing, Pearson correlation analysis, and independent samples t-tests. Findings from this study revealed substantial differences between sexes, confirming results from studies conducted globally, with boys having greater levels of lean body mass, whereas girls had greater levels of bodily fatness. Through the correlation analysis, a distinct difference between fat-related variables (body fat percentage, BMI, visceral fat, and vitality) was established to form a single cluster of closely related variables, whereas lean body mass indicators (muscle mass, bone mass, and BMR) formed another cluster. In addition, the independent sample t-tests established that males and females differed significantly for all variables (except for vitality), indicating that the differences seen in the study support the expected differences in physical and physiological development by gender at age 16 based on studies on males and females in similar age groups conducted recently in other parts of the world.

Traditional Games in Physical Education and Beyond: A Systematic Review of Experimental Research

Agam Akhmad Syaukani — 2026-04-30

This systematic literature review investigates the application of traditional games within school education. Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, the study analyzed 18 experimental research articles that utilized traditional games as the independent variable. Data was sourced from four prominent databases: Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and ScienceDirect. Key findings reveal a broad implementation of traditional games across diverse subjects, extending beyond the commonly associated Physical Education domain to encompass Mathematics, Physics, Art, and Science education. This practice is evident in various countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Tunisia, Spain, Kazakhstan, and Macedonia. The research emphasizes the interplay between game selection, intervention duration, and participant characteristics in determining the effectiveness of traditional game interventions. While this review highlights the significant potential of traditional games in enhancing educational outcomes, it underscores the need for further research. Exploring the application of traditional games in higher education and broader community contexts is crucial to fully comprehend their impact across different age groups and sociocultural settings. By expanding the scope of inquiry, future studies can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted benefits of traditional games and inform the development of effective educational strategies.

Differences in Functional Abilities in Junior Karates in the Pre-Competition and Competition Period

Shkelzen Shala — 2026-04-30

The sample of respondents on whom this research was conducted consists of 14 male junior athletes (karatists), potential representatives from the Republic of Kosovo. The research was conducted within the framework of the preparatory and pre-competitive period for participation in the Karate World Championship. The potential representatives who entered the sample of respondents were active competitors who participated in the national championship and premier leagues organized by the World Karate Federation WKF (World Karate Federation). The main goal of this research is to monitor and determine the differences that appear in the functional abilities of karate players after ten weeks of programmed training. The obtained results were processed and analyzed with a statistical package of programs appropriate for the research. According to the applied ANOVA and MANOVA tests, out of a total of six analyzed variables, only two (Beep - test and VО2max.) were found to have a statistically significant difference between the three measurements.

Exploring the Relationship Between Handgrip Strength, Body Fat Mass, and Fat-Free Mass in Male and Female Handball Athletes

Fatkur Rohman Kafrawi — 2026-04-30

This research endeavors to examine the correlation among handgrip strength (HGS), body fat mass (BFM), and fat-free mass (FFM) within the population of handball athletes.
This was a cross-sectional study involving 81 handball athletes consisting of 44 males (Age 17.4±1.5 years, height 1.73±0.06 m, body weight 64.7±10.5 kg, BMI 21.6±2.9 kg/m2) and 37 females (Age 17.0±1.4 years, height 1.61±0.06 m, body mass 55.9±10.2 kg, BMI 21.7±3.7 kg/m2).
There was a correlation in male handball athletes where the right HGS was correlated with the right BFM (r=0.231; p=0.022), the right HGS with the right FFM (r=0.302; p=0.003), the left HGS with the left FFM (r=0.297; p=0.003). Meanwhile, in female handball athletes, the right HGS was correlated with the right FFM (r=0.466; p=0.004), and the left HGS with the left FFM (r=0.448; p=0.005). This research elucidates that substantial correlations exist between Fat-Free Mass (FFM) and both right and left handgrip strength (HGS) in male and female handball athletes. In contrast, BFM only correlates with the right HGS, but not with the left HGS. This is likely influenced by the dominant side of the muscle. Thus, strength training programs should be focused on improving FFM as a whole, while also considering the potential for muscle imbalances due to the dominance of one side of the body to enhance the overall efficiency of physical capabilities.

Latent Structure of Anthropometric Characteristics in Male Adolescents Aged 12–14: A Two-Wave Factor Analytical Study

Betim Sylejmani — 2026-04-30

Understanding the latent structure of morphological characteristics in adolescents is essential for monitoring their growth, biological maturity and physical development. This study included a sample of 388 male students aged 12 to 14 years from three primary schools in Pristina, in order to identify the dominant latent dimensions that structure anthropometric variability at two time points – initial and final measurement. The applied set of anthropometric measures was processed by factor analysis using the principal components method with Varimax rotation, and the selection of components was performed according to the Kaiser–Gutmann criterion. Two stable and clearly interpretable dimensions were distinguished in both time sections: a body mass and subcutaneous fat tissue factor and a longitudinal dimensionality factor. The high percentage of explained variance and the consistency of the model in both measurements indicate a replicable morphological structure, characteristic of this developmental period. The obtained results have significant practical value, as they provide a valid basis for systematic growth monitoring, identification of risky anthropometric profiles and planning of interventions in the context of education and sports training.