Verification of the model of predisposition in triathlon: Structural model of confirmative factor analysis
Abstract
The aim of our study was to verify the model of predisposition in the short triathlon for talent assessment of young men athletes at the age 17-20 years. The research sample consisted of 55 top level triathletes - men, who were included in the Government support sport talents programme in the Czech Republic at the age of 17-20 years.
We used confirmative factor analysis (FA) and Path diagram to verify the model, which allow us to explain mutual relationships among observed variables. For statistical data processing we used structure equating modeling (SEM) by software Lisrel L88.
The study confirms best structural model for talent selection in triathlon at the age of 17-20 years old men, which composed seventeen indicators (tests) and explained 91% of all cross-correlations (Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) 0.91, Root Mean Square Residual (RMSR) 0.13). Tests for predispositions in triathlon were grouped into five items, three motor predispositions (swimming, cycling and running skills), aerobic and psychological predispositions.
Aerobic predispositions showed the highest importance to the assumptions to the general factor (1.00; 0). Running predispositions was measured as a very significant factor (-0.85; 0.28) which confirms importance of this critical stages of the race.
Lower factor weight showed clusters of swimming (-0.61; 0.63) and cycling (0.53; 0.72) predispositions. The psychological predispositions were found in the lowest effect (0.36; 0.87).
We confirm a predispositions and tests for measurement of its level for top level men triathletes in junior category. Model is run today in the Czech Republic, where we used the test standards for dividing Government support of sport talents.