Comparing the relationship between jump height and ankle joint range of motion in male handball players

Abstract

Aim The study aimed to investigate the effect of ankle joint range of motion on the vertical height achieved during the three-step jump in handball athletes. Methodology Twenty-two participants (n=22) who fit within the inclusion criteria participated in this study. These participants attended the Podiatry Biomechanics Laboratory located at the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Malta. Anthropometric measurements such as weight and height were recorded. The ankle joint range of motion was then measured, and they were divided into two groups: Group A consisted of participants with more than 10° of ankle dorsiflexion, and Group B consisted of participants with less than 10° of ankle dorsiflexion. After undergoing a warm-up and acclimatising to the jump and environment, the participants underwent eight three-step jumps, out of which an average of the highest five jumps was recorded. Results Out of the twenty-two participants, 12 participants (54.5%) were classed in group A and 10 participants (45.5%) were classed in group B. The Shapiro-Wilk test indicated a normal distribution within the data collected (p=0.317, p=0.249), therefore Parametric testing was used. The Independent sample T-Test showed a significant (p<0.001) difference in jump height between Group A (58.21cm) and Group B (45.78cm). A positive and significant correlation using the Pearson Correlation test was found between the final distance jumped and the ankle joint range of motion (p<0.001, r=0.744 left ankle; p<0.001, r=0.778 right ankle). A negative and significant correlation was also found between ankle joint range of motion and BMI (p=0.006, r=-0.566 left ankle; p=0.008, r=-0.550 right ankle). The Paired samples T-Test resulted in no significant difference (p=0.359) between the means of the left and right ankle joint range of motion. Conclusion The amount of range of motion found at the ankle joint had an effect on the maximum vertical jump height achieved in a three-step jump in handball. Resultantly, greater ankle joint RoM correlated positively with increased maximum jump height attainment. Using the knowledge gained from this study, future screening, testing and stretching exercises can be performed to help athletes continue to maximise their potential.