The Effect of Competitive Exercises Involving Cognitive Pressure on Visual-Motor Coordination and Head-Level Handball Passing Accuracy Among Students

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effect of competitive exercises involving cognitive pressure on visual-motor coordination and head-level handball passing accuracy among students. The researcher employed an experimental method using a two-group design (involving pre- and post-tests). The study population consisted of fourth-year students at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Babil, during the 2024–2025 academic year, totaling 230 students. A sample of 30 students was randomly selected and divided equally into two groups, control and experimental-with 15 students in each. The experimental group engaged in competitive exercises involving cognitive pressure, while the control group followed the standard instructional method. The research results demonstrated a statistically significant superiority of the experimental group over the control group in the post-test measurements for the variables of visual-motor coordination and passing accuracy (from head height), thereby confirming the effectiveness of competitive exercises performed under cognitive pressure. Furthermore, a comparison of pre-test and post-test results showed improvement in the post-test for both groups. Based on these findings, the researcher recommends incorporating and implementing competitive exercises involving cognitive pressure into handball instructional units, given their effective role in simultaneously developing both cognitive and skill-based aspects.