Effects of Aquatic Exercise Training on Physical Performance and Mood States in Male Collegiate Soccer Players

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction/Purpose This study investigated the effects of aquatic exercise training on the physical performance and mood states of male collegiate soccer players. Methods Twenty male collegiate soccer players (age 19.9 ± 0.9 yr) performed aquatic exercise training composed of warm-up exercises, high-intensity interval training, resistance training using tools, and cooldown activities. Training was performed for 30 min·d−1, twice per week for 11 wk. Participants were randomly allocated to the training or control groups (n = 10 each). The participants’ anthropometric measurements, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, change of direction, endurance performance, and mood states were assessed at baseline and after the 11-wk intervention period. Results After the intervention, the ROM of the shoulder and hip joints and the isokinetic and back muscle strength increased in the training group (P < 0.05 each). Significant group–time interaction effects was observed between the two groups in the ROM of the shoulder and hip joints and in isokinetic and back muscle strength (P < 0.05 each). The Profile of Mood States, Second Edition vigor–activity scores increased in the training group (19.3 ± 6.4 to 24.5 ± 5.6 points, P = 0.007), and a significant interaction effect for group–time was observed for vigor–activity between the two groups (P = 0.005). Conclusions These results suggest that aquatic exercise training helps improve ROM, muscle strength, and mood in male collegiate soccer players.