The effect of ball weight on the effectiveness of the jumping skill in basketball

Abstract

Physical fitness plays a fundamental role in engaging in sports activities, with the significance of this role varying depending on the type and nature of the activity or sport. The type of physical fitness required also differs from one sport to another, and this is known as specific physical fitness.

Sports training experts agree that general physical fitness is the foundation upon which the other components necessary to achieve what is known as "sports form" are built. Some believe that general physical fitness is the backbone or the broad base for all sports activities (Ibrahim, 1980).

General physical fitness is the basis for developing specific physical fitness in all types of physical activities, followed by the basic skills of the sport and then the strategies and playing techniques used. It is essential to recognize that the actions of a basketball player on the court are natural movements such as running, jumping, and shooting. The overall evaluation of these movements depends on the player's physical preparation.

The higher the physical conditioning level, the greater the expected activity and effectiveness in the game. Often, the extent of a player's physical preparation plays a decisive role in a match where other factors, like team conditions, are equal. For basketball players, it is essential to possess specific physical qualities such as strength, speed, the ability to perform repeated jumps, and flexibility.

For example, the strength in the legs should correspond to the leg movements that remain in a semi-flexed position during most of the game. These movements should be deep, and this is achieved only through specific exercises designed to develop these attributes. These exercises help prevent injuries like sprains and enhance the player's mental focus during training (Start, 1984).

The necessity of these attributes appears in the actions and behavior of the basketball player. It is important to note that these attributes manifest in varying degrees depending on the situation. For example, when intercepting the ball, strength is required; when accelerating, speed is necessary; and when shooting from a jump, explosive strength (strength combined with speed) is needed.