It was three days of intensive testing. Researchers from the University of Zielona Góra (UZ) put the ORLEN Zastal Zielona Góra basketball players through a rigorous series of evaluations designed to assess the athletes' current physical condition.
One of the primary objectives of the assessment is to optimize the players' physical preparation. The evaluation was divided into three core stages: an initial medical screening accompanied by body composition analysis, followed by an assessment of anaerobic capacity and lower-limb power output. The final phase evaluated muscle strength under isokinetic conditions.
“This approach allows us to identify potential imbalances between flexor and extensor muscle groups,” explains Dr. Hab. Mariusz Naczk, University Professor and project coordinator from the Department of Applied and Clinical Physiology at UZ. “We work across five training zones: recovery, aerobic, anaerobic threshold, anaerobic capacity, and peak power. Each zone yields distinct physiological outcomes. Our goal is to provide the coaching staff with evidence-based recommendations on how to tailor conditioning routines during individualised training sessions.”
Timing the assessments for mid-August was a deliberate decision:
“It enables us to benchmark the players’ physical fitness following the summer break and prior to pre-season training,” says Arkadiusz Miłoszewski, head coach of ORLEN Zastal Zielona Góra. “We want to identify any physical deficits early on to prevent future injuries and establish clear performance protocols throughout the upcoming season. Injuries are an athlete’s worst nightmare, so having the squad thoroughly evaluated gives us the best possible foundation to prepare for the season with confidence.”
Among the players tested was Andrzej Mazurczak:
“These assessments are vital—not just for us as athletes, but crucially for the coaching staff,” commented ‘Andy’. “They give the coaches a clear picture of our current fitness levels and highlight where we need to focus our efforts during training. The main goal is to enter the season in peak condition, pacing ourselves wisely so we don't overtrain early on and burn out ahead of key fixtures. It’s about steady progress, and these tests offer a fantastic benchmark for where we stand. The final day was certainly the most demanding, but everyone stayed active over the summer and gave it their all.”
The collected data will now undergo thorough analysis by the UZ research team before the final findings are handed over to the ORLEN Zastal Zielona Góra coaching staff.
