Differences in Selected Motor Fitness Variables between Handball and Basketball Players

Background/Objective: Motor fitness is a key determinant of performance in team sports. This study aimed to compare motor fitness variables—Speed, Agility, Muscular Endurance, and Explosive Strength—between Handball and Basketball players. Methods: Fifty male players (25 Handball and 25 Basketball) aged 17-19 years from Bellary district were randomly selected. Speed was assessed using the 50-yard dash, Agility with the 4×10 meter shuttle run, Muscular Endurance through sit-ups, and Explosive Strength via standing broad jump. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and independent samples t-tests were applied to compare the groups. Results: No significant differences were found between Handball and Basketball players in Speed (t = -1.195, p = 0.020), Agility (t = -5.286, p = 0.000), Muscular Endurance (t = -0.178, p = 0.765), or Explosive Strength (t = -0.020, p = 0.125). Descriptive data indicated that Handball players performed slightly better in Speed and Agility, whereas Basketball players scored marginally higher in Muscular Endurance. Conclusion: The findings suggest that overall motor fitness is comparable between Handball and Basketball players. Slight differences in specific variables may reflect sport-specific demands and training practices. These results highlight the importance of tailored training programs to optimize performance in team sports.