As the global popularity of handball continues to rise, the depth and breadth of research dedicated to understanding and enhancing the game must keep pace. Handball has evolved enormously over the years. As former handball players we have seen how the game has changed over the years with players continuing to push the boundaries of our sport in terms of athleticism and technical and tactical solutions. Coaches continue to evolve the game with new approaches to the game thanks also to the rules’ changes aimed at making the sport more and more spectacular. With the professionalisation of handball, more emphasis is now placed on all aspects of preparation, injury prevention and injury management of elite players who are required to play numerous games each season between clubs and national teams’ activities. Handball players health is paramount to make sure they can perform when it matters and knowledge on various aspects of performance needs to be continuously updated to provide coaches and practitioners with the most up to date solutions.

This special issue of our journal aims to delve into the multifaceted aspects of handball, bringing together cutting-edge research and expert insights on various critical topics. From performance analysis to injury rehabilitation, training methodologies to inclusivity, this collection of articles provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of handball research and practice.

Performance in handball is a complex interplay of physical, technical, tactical, and psychological factors. We have articles in this issue, like the detailed work from Dr Karcher, explore various dimensions of performance, including the physiological demands of the sport, key performance indicators, and the latest advancements in performance analytics. These insights are crucial for athletes and coaches aiming to optimize training and in-game strategies. Effective training monitoring is essential for maximizing athlete performance and preventing overtraining. These articles present innovative approaches to tracking athlete load, recovery, and adaptation. By leveraging technology and data analytics, the articles provide valuable tools for coaches to fine-tune training programs and enhance athlete performance while mitigating the risk of injuries.

Unfortunately, injuries do occur quite often in a contact sport like Handball in youth and senior players. The most common injuries are described and discussed in the context of injury prevention. Also, we have an excellent article on using imaging to diagnose typical handball injuries written by Dr Paulo Victor Elito. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most devastating for handball players, often requiring extensive rehabilitation. We present the latest protocols and therapeutic techniques designed to expedite recovery and ensure a safe return to play. Emphasis is placed on individualized rehabilitation plans and the integration of sports-specific drills to restore full functionality. The high demands placed on the shoulder joint in handball can lead to overuse injuries and chronic conditions. For this reason, we have an article delving into the biomechanics of the handball shoulder, preventive strategies, and rehabilitation protocols. Researchers and clinicians provide evidence-based approaches to maintaining shoulder health and addressing common shoulder issues faced by handball players.

Finally, patellar tendinitis, or jumper's knee, is a prevalent condition among handball athletes due to the sport's repetitive jumping and landing actions. Rehabilitation strategies focusing on load management are presented from our daily practice in Aspetar. Handball demands a unique blend of strength, speed, endurance, and agility. The fitness training section offers insights into the most effective training regimens tailored for handball athletes recovering from injuries. The article written by Aspetar staff provides a comprehensive guide to developing and maintaining peak physical condition when handball players are injured and limited in their ability to train.

We have also sought expertise to include knowledge on other aspects of Handball not only focused on players. For example, we have included an article on Beach handball. A sport invented in Italy and demonstrated in Paris 2024 Olympics, recently included in the youth Olympics programme. Beach Handball is an exciting variation of the traditional game, with its own set of physical and tactical challenges. The article explores the specific demands of beach handball, including the adaptations required for playing on sand and the unique tactical approaches as well as the typical injuries occurring in this version of Handball. The growing popularity of beach handball highlights the need for specialized training and performance strategies discussed in the paper.

We have also included a specialist article on the best preparation strategies for referees. The role of referees in handball is critical for the fair and effective enforcement of rules. Articles on refereeing cover aspects such as decision-making processes, physical and psychological demands, and the training required to maintain high standards of officiating. Understanding the challenges faced by referees can lead to better support systems and training programs.

Inclusivity in handball is essential for the sport's growth and accessibility. In this special issue we have included a special initiative and programs aimed at making handball accessible to all, regardless of age, gender, ability, or socioeconomic status. Highlighting the importance of inclusion, the article showcases a successful initiative developed by Maida Arslanagic, a former international player, and it represents an excellent example for promoting diversity in handball.

Finally, we are big believers of a holistic approach to Handball preparation. For this, the coach is key in all the work conducted to support handball players. The perspectives of coaches are invaluable in understanding the practical application of research findings as well as provide avenues for further work in our sport. In this section, experienced coaches share their views on various aspects of handball training, performance, and athlete development. Their insights bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering pragmatic advice for implementing research-based strategies in real-world settings.

This special issue encapsulates the dynamic and evolving nature of handball. By bringing together diverse topics and expert opinions, we aimed to provide a valuable resource for coaches, players, researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts alike. We hope this special issue inspires continued exploration and innovation in the world of handball, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this thrilling sport.

Marco Cardinale PhD

Executive Director of Research & Scientific Support in Aspetar

Grethe Myklebust PT, PhD

Professor of Sport Medicine

Merete Moller PT, PhD

Senior Researcher