Identification of physical fitness tests for basketball players

Aim. The paper aims to study the factor structure of physical fitness in basketball players and identify tests for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of their skills. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from September 2017 to May 2018 at Vyatka State University, Kirov. Fifty-three students were examined, all of them participated in the University Basketball Championship. A theoretical analysis of scientific literature sources and a pedagogical experiment were conducted. Mathematical statistics and pedagogical testing were used as methods. Results. Twelve tests were selected and checked for reliability that influenced most the physical fitness of basketball players in terms of strength, speed, jumping ability. Three hypothetical latent factors were identified that optimally determined the combination of these tests: “jumping ability / speed”, “explosive force/endurance”, and “strength”. Using factor analysis and an intercorrelation matrix, the most informative physical fitness tests were identified: standing vertical jump, 20 m shuttle run, pull-ups, which are used in the educational and training process of basketball players. Conclusion. The data obtained from the pedagogical experiment are of practical interest, primarily for trainers and university teachers. These tests do not require expensive equipment and can be performed in a gym, at the same time being the most informative in a limited time, which is typical for the educational and training process of students. This approach increases the efficiency of classes and optimizes the educational process. A comprehensive assessment of students will make it possible to track their health and physical fitness. Such data will allow adjusting the training process in the most effective way.