INTEGRATING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN OPTIMIZING PHYSICAL TRAINING FOR U18 HANDBALL PLAYERS

Introduction: In contemporary sports, the integration of digital technologies into physical training has become increasingly relevant, particularly for youth athletes who are in sensitive stages of physical and functional development. For U18 handball players, the balance between maximizing performance and ensuring safe progression is crucial, making technology a valuable support for coaches and athletes. Objective: The purpose of this research was to analyse the effects of integrating digital monitoring tools into the physical preparation of U18 handball players. The hypothesis was that technology-assisted training would generate superior improvements compared to traditional approaches by enabling individualized workloads, objective feedback, and improved injury prevention strategies. Material and Methods: The study design included a sample of U18 handball players, divided into an experimental group trained with digital tools and a control group trained using conventional methods. Training was carried out over a full competitive cycle. Both groups were evaluated at baseline and after the intervention through standardized motor tests (strength, speed, agility, endurance, mobility) and physiological indicators such as heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and accelerometery. Tools employed included GPS trackers for movement and load assessment, video analysis for technique evaluation, and sensor-based devices to measure landing forces and postural stability. Results: The experimental group showed faster and more consistent improvements in explosive strength, acceleration, and endurance, while also maintaining higher levels of recovery quality as measured through HRV. Digital feedback promoted greater motivation and awareness among athletes, while objective monitoring allowed coaches to adjust workloads more precisely, reducing signs of overload. In contrast, the control group demonstrated progress, but with higher variability and limited individualization. Discussion: The results supported previous literature that highlighted the benefits of integrating digital monitoring tools into sports training. The added value lay in the objectivity of data collection and the capacity to design personalized programs while minimizing injury risk. Conclusions: The integration of digital technologies into the physical preparation of U18 handball players proved to be more effective than traditional approaches, supporting both performance enhancement and safe athletic development. This hybrid training model represents a methodological innovation and a practical necessity in the cultivation of future elite athletes.