Correlating Physical Fitness and Performance Metrics in Kho-Kho Athletes

Abstract

Kho-Kho, a dynamic indigenous sport, demands exceptional agility, velocity, endurance, and tactical precision, yet limited scientific inquiry has explored the physiological determinants influencing player proficiency. This study investigates the interplay between key fitness parameters and performance indicators in competitive female Kho-Kho athletes, focusing on resting heart rate (RHR), reaction time, speed, Body Mass Index (BMI), agility, and explosive strength. A cohort of 30 female players, aged 18-25 years and actively competing at the university or state level, was selected through purposive sampling, with standardized protocols employed for assessment. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that agility and speed exhibit the most pronounced relationship with performance, emphasizing their criticality in the sport. A lower RHR correlated with superior endurance, enabling sustained high-intensity gameplay, while explosive strength augmented sprinting prowess and rapid directional shifts, both integral to competitive success. Additionally, reaction time emerged as a pivotal factor in executing swift gameplay maneuvers. The findings reinforce the necessity of sport-specific conditioning regimens that prioritize agility, cardiovascular resilience, and explosive power, equipping coaches and sports scientists with empirical insights to refine training methodologies, enhance athletic capabilities, and foster talent identification.