THE SELF-PERCEIVED LEVEL OF PHYSICAL FITNESS OF ROMANIAN PROFESSIONAL HANDBALL FEMALE PLAYERS.

This study focuses on the physical characteristics and training needs of female handball players, based on responses from 67 athletes from Division A and the National League, aged 18 to 43 years (M=26.08, SD=5.69). The players were surveyed using a specially designed instrument during the precompetitive period. The findings revealed that elite players train extensively, more than five times per week, including Core Stability Training. They expressed satisfaction with their own physical fitness as well as that of their team. In the pre-competitive period, their training needs are centered on physical conditioning, while during the competitive period, they emphasize the development of endurance, strength, and psychological qualities. These conclusions can serve as recommendations for coaches aiming to achieve optimal results in women's handball competitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]