Analysis and comparison of fast break in top level handball matches

The aim of this study was to describe an alternative approach in order to estimate the level of specific endurance (stamina) via video-analysis in handball athletes, which is required during the whole game. One thousand five hundred three (1503) attacks from 15 matches of 8 teams participating in the first division of the 2003 National Men’s Handball Championship were studied. For the analysis, all attacks were recorded and categorized based on the type of fast break. Furthermore, for each type of attack the outcome of the shot (goal, riposte, missed goal) and the offensive errors were recorded. All the fast break attempts (successful ones or not) were taken into consideration. The data analysis was conducted using Crosstabulation and chi-square tests. The results revealed that, during the first half, the 1st and 2nd wave were used in a percentage of 45,9% and 54,1%, respectively (p<0.05), although during the second half the percentage of each type was 63,3% and 36,7%, respectively (p<0.05). The third wave of fast break was not recorded. The number of successful attempts of fast break in the first half (77,1%) was greater than in the 2nd half (66,9%) (p<0.05). During the first half the frequency of the 1st wave (45,9%) was lower than that in the 2nd wave (54,1%) (p<0.05). However, during the second half the 1st wave’s frequency (63,3%) was greater compared to the 2nd wave’s (36,7%) (p<0.05). The form of analysis which was used to record, research and compare the frequency of appearance of fast break showed a reduction of fast break in the second half compared to the first half. There was also a significant difference between the two half times regarding the successful and unsuccessful fast breaks. The results may indicate some influence of training specificity and provide suggestions to coaches regarding the organisation of handball training drills that will possibly lead to an increase in explosive power.