Effects of a Strength Training Program on Basic Basketball Skills in Wheelchair Basketball Players

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of an upper extremity strength training program on basic basketball skills in wheelchair basketball players. The study consisted of a total of 27 wheelchair basketball players (15 in the training group and 12 in the control group). The basic basketball skills were assessed at the beginning and end of the training program with a slalom test, slalom with ball test, layup test, zone shot test, two-point shot test, and pass for accuracy test. The warm-up part of the strength training included the use of wheelchair and passing exercises with a basketball. The special strength program was applied to the training group three times a week for eight weeks. The control group continued with the routine education program. While there was a statistically significant difference in the slalom, slalom with ball, zone shot, and four-meter and eight-meter pass for accuracy tests in the training group (p0.05). It was determined that the basic basketball skills test of the control group did not yield a difference (p>0.05). At the conclusion this research, it was determined that the upper extremity strength training program planned for wheelchair basketball players for eight weeks positively affected their basic basketball skills. It may be recommended to include this program in the warm-up session of the training program in order to improve sportive performance.