As part of the research phase of the project, within WP 3, an analysis of physical parameters was conducted, which represents a key aspect in understanding sports performance and success. Various physical characteristics, shaped by hereditary and environmental factors, significantly impact motor skills and an individual's potential in different sports. Recognizing and understanding body types through specific motor tests allows for better guidance of athletes towards disciplines in which they can achieve the best results.
Theories of physical growth and development, along with Sheldon's classification of body types, provide valuable insights into how the body changes and adapts through life stages and how these changes affect sports performance. For example, conservative and progressive growth tendencies explain how the body can retain childhood proportions or significantly change them during growth. On the other hand, hypoplastic and hyperplastic growth tendencies discuss the development of body types such as asthenic and athletic builds, while the theory of tertiary variants describes the development of dysmorphic and dysplastic types of constitution.
Practical examples show how motor skills develop from early childhood. For example, natural forms of movement such as crawling, walking, and running are crucial for the proper development of the muscular and skeletal system. A lack of these activities in early childhood can lead to problems such as scoliosis, which can hinder later motor and functional development.
Besides physical predispositions, motivation and the will to engage in sports play a key role in achieving success. The proper use of modern technology can further optimize focus and performance of athletes, allowing the brain to efficiently process new information and acquired knowledge. For example, reducing the use of mobile phones immediately after waking up and before going to sleep can improve cognitive functions and concentration.
Specialization in a particular sport leads to specific anatomical and physiological changes that enhance the abilities needed for success in that discipline. Body height, as one of the important factors, can have different impacts depending on the sport, which is important to consider when choosing a sports career. For example, height is an advantage in basketball and volleyball, while it might be a hindrance in gymnastics.
Different sports require different physical characteristics and optimal ages for the start of specialization. For example, in gymnastics, girls need to start specializing at the age of 9-10 to achieve top results by the age of 18, while for sports like tennis, it is recommended to start at 11-13 years for girls and 12-14 for boys, with top results expected in the early twenties.
Finally, the complex relationship between body type and sports success emphasizes the need for a holistic approach in training and athlete development. Considering all relevant factors, including motor skills, physical characteristics, motivation, and proper use of technology, it is possible to achieve top results in sports. Through a comprehensive analysis of physical parameters, a foundation has been created for understanding how to optimally develop the sports potential of each individual.
