Do handball throws always exhibit a proximal-to-distal segmental sequence?

Abstract

Previous studies on overarm throwing have described a proximal-to-distal segmental sequence. The proximal segments reached their maximal linear velocities before the distal ones. In handball, no study has demonstrated this sequence from the upper torso to the wrist, although a recent study did present a different organization. The aim of this study was to analyse the throwing arm segmental organization during handball throwing. We found that the maximal linear velocity of the shoulder occurred after the maximal linear velocity of the elbow. Moreover, the maximal angular velocity of the upper torso occurred later than that of the elbow. Hence, contrary to other disciplines, the rotation of the upper torso was not suddenly stopped just after the forward arm motion was initiated. These results may apply to handball in general or be specific to the population of handball players studied. It may be advisable in future studies to include international players.

Keywords:

• biomechanics
• handball
• overarm throwing
• segmental organization

Acknowledgements

Our work was supported by the Conseil Régional de Bretagne, the French Youth and Sports Ministry and the French Olympic Preparation in collaboration with the French Handball Federation. We wish to thank all the players for their participation. We would also like to thank Stéphane Lebrun, Richard Kulpa and David James for editorial assistance, and the members of the laboratory who helped us undertake the different experiments.