Comparison of Physical Fitness Variables Among Futsal Players of Different Age Groups in the Under-13 Category

Abstract

Objective: To compare physical fitness variables in futsal athletes from different age groups in the sub-13 category. Methods: Sixteen male under-13 futsal athletes, aged 12–13 years, were divided into two groups: athletes born in 2008 (G1; n = 8) and athletes born in 2009 (G2; n = 8). Data were collected on separate days in the following order: (a) anthropometric and postural balance assessment; (b) agility and speed assessment; and (c) horizontal jump and endurance assessment. Student's t-test for independent samples was used to compare groups, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Significant differences were found between G1 and G2 only for speed (p < 0.05). Similar values were observed for age, body mass, height, postural balance, and agility (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Among athletes from different age groups within the sub-13 futsal category, significant differences were observed only in speed.