Physical Fatigue and its Relationship to Recurrent Sports Injuries among Young Basketball Players

Abstract

This research aims to identify the relationship between physical fatigue and recurrent sports injuries among young basketball players. The researcher used a descriptive approach with correlational analysis, as it is suitable for the nature of the research problem and its objectives. The research population and sample were determined from the Al-Adhamiya Sports Club basketball team for the year (2024-2025), totaling (20) players in Baghdad. The pilot study sample was drawn from the research population, consisting of (5) players.

In light of the research objectives, field procedures, and statistical results, the following conclusions can be drawn:

1. Advanced basketball players exhibited relatively high levels of physical fatigue as measured by the Perceived Effort (RPE) scale, reflecting the high intensity of training loads and competitions.
2. A clear decrease in physical performance indicators after exertion was observed, manifested in a decline in vertical jump, a slower transition speed, and an increase in agility time. This indicates the direct impact of fatigue on neuromuscular efficiency.
3. The results showed a strong positive correlation between the level of physical fatigue and the frequency of sports injuries, suggesting that increased fatigue is associated with a higher likelihood of injury.