Effect of Plyometric Training versus Swiss Ball Training on Core Strength, Agility and Dynamic Balance in Recreational Badminton Players: A Research Protocol

Abstract

Introduction: Badminton is a recreational, versatile, explosive sprint sport. The player needs core strength, agility, and dynamic balance. Resistance training used in plyometric activities helps to improve the athlete’s strength and fitness. Swiss ball training, a widely embraced method of functional exercise, enhances balance, core stability, flexibility, and overall strength. Need for the study: This study fills a gap in knowledge by exploring the effects of plyometric training and Swiss ball training on core strength, agility, and dynamic balance in recreational badminton players. It seeks to enhance on-court performance and prevent injuries by determining, which method is more effective. Tailored training programs can then be developed further based on individual responses to these methods. By providing evidence-based data, the study aims to support and guide the strength and conditioning coaches, trainers, and players in making appropriate decision about training approaches, ensuring optimal results and minimising injury risks in badminton. Aim: To find out the effect of Plyometric training versus Swiss Ball training on core strength, agility, and dynamic balance in recreational badminton players. Methodology: A non-blinded, randomised controlled parallelgroup trial will be conducted for a period of one year from January 2024 to December 2024. Participants will be recruited from Wardha’s District Badminton Stadium and will sign a consent form after meeting inclusion or exclusion criteria. They will be randomly divided into Group-A- Plyometric training and Group-B-Swiss ball training by the primary researcher. Outcome measures will be assessed pre and post-intervention. The analysis will be conducted using the free version of R-software. Significance in mean baseline variables will be assessed using either the t-test or Mann-Whitney test for the two assessment periods. Pairwise comparisons between the two groups for significant differences will be conducted using either the paired t-test or Wilcoxon test. The p-value will be evaluated at a 5% level of significance (p≤0.05).