Reliability Assessment of Physical Education Students' Discus Throwing Competencies: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

The assessment of discus throwing competencies in educational settings has historically lacked standardized measurement protocols and reliability metrics While throwing events are fundamental to physical education curricula, limited research exists on the systematic evaluation of technical performance among physical education students. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of discus throwing performance measures, analyze gender-specific technical patterns, and identify key biomechanical predictors of throwing success among physical education students. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 273 physical education students (142 males131 females; aged 17-20 years). Participants completed six throwing trials using standardized implements (1kg females, 1.5kg males). Performance was assessed using high-speed video analysis (240fps), measuring throwing distance, release angle, hip-shoulder separation, angular velocity, and technical execution scores. Three certified coaches independently evaluated technical components using a standardized rubric. High between-trial reliability was observed for throwing distance (ICC = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.83-0.91) and technical execution scores (Cronbach's α = 0.84). Significant gender differences were found in throwing distance (d = 1.89, p < 0.001) and rotational dynamics (p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis identified technical execution (β = 0.48, p < 0.001) and hip-shoulder separation (β = 0.35, p < 0.001) as the strongest performance predictors (R²= 0.83). The study established reliable assessment protocols for discus throwing in educational settings, demonstrating strong relationships between technical execution and performance outcomes. Gender-specific patterns in technical components suggest the need for differentiated instructional approaches. The findings support emphasis on technique development over power training in youth athletics.