Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the heart rates, step counts, motor
skills, and attitudes of male roundnet participants during match play. More specifically,
the study determined if roundnet kept participants in their target heart rate (THR) zone
and measured the frequency of steps while playing. Motor skills were analyzed using
video and event recording of roundnet game play. Finally, the researcher surveyed participants
to determine their attitudes and motivations for participating in exercise and
roundnet.
The researcher recruited 20 male volunteer participants between the ages of
18 and 27 to play six games of roundnet. The participants were categorized into two
groups, experienced (N=14) and inexperienced (N=6).
The mean heart ratess for the experienced group were 135 bpm, while the
inexperienced group registered 122 bpm. All participants in this study reached their
moderate THR zone, nine reached the vigorous THR zone. The mean length per game was 11:23 for the experienced group and 9:26 for the inexperienced group. Experienced
participants demonstrated a higher mean for successful right- and left-hand passes, kills,
and drop shots. Different reasons which drew participants to roundnet include novelty,
physical fitness, and enjoyment of participation.
This study provides an initial database to support roundnet as a sport that may
help participants, children, and adults reach their health and fitness goals. Including the
sport of roundnet in elementary, secondary, and higher education levels may serve as an
affordable and motivating sport to produce moderate to vigorous physical activity.
