Abstract
This pilot study aimed to determine the effects of differential learning in sprint running with and without changes of direction (COD) on physical performance parameters in female basketball players and to determine the feasibility of the training protocol. Nine female basketball players completed 4 weeks of repeated sprint training (RST) with (COD, n = 4) or without (NCOD, n = 5) changes of direction. A battery of sprints (0–10 and 0–25 m), vertical jumps (counter movement jump (CMJ), drop jump, and single-leg CMJs), and COD tests were conducted before and after intervention. NCOD completed two sets of ten sprints of 20 m, whereas COD performed 20 m sprints with a 180 degree turn at 10 m, returning to the starting line. Before each sprint, participants were instructed to provide different fluctuations (i.e., differential learning) in terms of varying the sprint. Both groups had 30 s of passive recovery between two sprints and 3 min between sets. A significant effect of time for the 0–10 m sprint, CMJ, and single leg-CMJ asymmetries were observed. Adding “erroneous” fluctuation during RST seems to be a suitable and feasible strategy for coaches to enhance physical performance in young female basketball players. However, further studies including larger samples and controlled designs are recommended to strengthen present findings.
Highlights
Due to the lack of comparable findings, we propose the null hypothesis, i.e., that there will be no difference in the efficacy of the repeated differential sprint training with or without changes of direction (COD)
The concept of systems dynamics with its essential role of fluctuations especially in phase transitions conflicts with the reliability criterium in test theory, the reliability of the chosen test diagnosis was determined for reasons of comparison and evaluation
The higher variability of stimuli during the training suggests looking for additional effects on prevention of injuries or choking in basketball of female players
Summary
The success of team sports depends, to a large extent, on the physical abilities of a player and on the technical and tactical skills [1]. In team sports (e.g., basketball), repeated bouts of high-intensity activities (i.e., sprinting, jumping) are interspersed with periods of low-to-moderate activity or passive recovery [1]. The physical demands are complex and challenge athletes to have highly and simultaneously developed speed, agility, strength, power, and endurance qualities [1]. It seems plausible that practitioners working within team sports design training regimes that adequately match the specific team sport requirements
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