Comparison of Leg Power and Balance among Basketball and Handball Players in Public Secondary Schools in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State

Abstract

Quality physical education and supportive school environments can provide physical fitness profiles such as power and balance and health literacy for long-lasting health. The study adopted the ex-post-facto research design to assess the power and balance of basketball and handball players in public secondary schools in Nsukka Local Government Area (LGA). A total of 206 students were selected from 30 registered public secondary schools using the simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Standardized Test Battery of the Council of Europe (EUROFIT 1983) was used to collect data. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyse and answer the research questions. The results showed that basketball players had higher power levels than handball players, while handball players had lower balance levels compared to basketball players. The findings highlight the need for improved sports facilities and coaching programmes to enhance the power and balance of handball and basketball players in public secondary schools in Nsukka LGA.