Impact Of 8-wk Resistance Band Training On Scapular Mobility In Div3 Softball Players

Abstract

PURPOSE: Strengthening the musculature surrounding the scapula is necessary for improving performance and injury prevention in throwing athletes. Because traditional isotonic strengthening may not be specific to an eccentric pattern of the overhand throw, more effective and functional means of strengthening the shoulder muscles are needed. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference between traditional (T) and a combination of traditional and resistance band (T+B) resistance programs on strength, scapular mobility, and throwing velocity in collegiate softball players. METHODS: Thirty-four females (18-21 years) were selected and assigned to a control group (non-athletes) or training group (athletes). The training group participants were randomly assigned to either the T or T+B group. The T and T+B groups performed similar resistance exercises with an additional 8 resistance band exercises focusing on strengthening scapular stabilizers performed by T+B. Both training groups completed an 8-wk program: 2 days/wk for the first 4 weeks and 3 days/wk for the remaining four weeks. Participants underwent pre- and posttesting using the following assessments: 1) Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST); 2) Functional Stability Test (FST); 3) Dumbbell Row Test; 4) Dumbbell Reverse Fly Test; 5) Throwing Velocity. RESULTS: A significant difference (p < .05) was found from pre- to posttesting for two LSST measures in the T+B group. Significant differences among all participants were found in the FST (p < .05). The T+B group increased their mean score by 23.2% as opposed to 16.9% in the T group. A significant interaction effect between time and group was found in dumbbell row and reverse fly tests (p < .05). T+B and T elicited significant increases in strength (p < .05) from pre- to posttraining in dumbbell row and reverse fly with T+B increasing more in the reverse fly. No significant differences were observed in throwing velocity. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest greater effectiveness of traditional resistance training combined with resistance band exercises targeting scapula musculature in improving shoulder strength and stability than traditional exercises alone. This can be applied to softball athletes with the intent of improving athletic performance, establishing more effective training programs, and possibly reducing injuries.