The Effects of Traditional and Enforced Stopping Speed and Agility Training on Multidirectional Speed and Athletic Function

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of a traditional speed and agility training program (TSA) and an enforced stopping program emphasizing deceleration (ESSA). Twenty college-aged team sport athletes (16 males, 4 females) were allocated into the training groups. Pretesting and posttesting included: 0-10, 0-20, 0-40 m sprint intervals, change-of-direction, and acceleration test (CODAT), T-test (multidirectional speed); vertical, standing broad, lateral, and drop jumps, medicine ball throw (power); Star Excursion Balance Test (posteromedial, medial, anteromedial reaches; dynamic stability); and concentric (240° · s(-1)) and eccentric (30° · s(-1)) knee extensor and flexor isokinetic testing (unilateral strength). Both groups completed a 6-week speed and agility program. The ESSA subjects decelerated to a stop within a specified distance in each drill. A repeated measures analysis of variance determined significant (p ≤ 0.05) within- and between-group changes. Effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated. The TSA group improved all speed tests (d = 0.29-0.96), and most power tests (d = 0.57-1.10). The ESSA group improved the 40-m sprint, CODAT, T-test, and most power tests (d = 0.46-1.31) but did not significantly decrease 0-10 and 0-20 m times. The TSA group increased posteromedial and medial excursions (d = 0.97-1.89); the ESSA group increased medial excursions (d = 0.99-1.09). The ESSA group increased concentric knee extensor and flexor strength, but also increased between-leg knee flexor strength differences (d = 0.50-1.39). The loading associated with stopping can increase unilateral strength. Coaches should ensure deceleration drills allow for appropriate sprint distances before stopping, and athletes do not favor 1 leg for stopping after deceleration.

Agility training in young elite soccer players: promising results compared to change of direction drills

“…Nevertheless, the lack of strength measurements could be considered as a limitation of the present study. In fact, according to Lockie et al [33], strength and power required for COD and linear sprinting are similar (and fit the model proposed by Young et al [4]). Moreover, the nature of the AG and COD training exercises (i.e.…”

Specific physical trainability in elite young soccer players: efficiency over 6 weeks’ in-season training

“…Indeed, Jovanovic et al [34] indicated that 8 weeks of a specific COD training programme appears to be an effective way of improving power performance in young soccer players. Furthermore, Lockie et al [35] suggested that complex AG training can be used to enhance explosive muscle power and dynamic athletic performance. Moreover, and according to the meta-analysis presented by Taylor et al [36], RS sprint training can induce small to large improvements in muscular power amongst already trained players.…”

THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN THE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT SCREENTM, Y-BALANCE TEST, AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE TESTS IN MALE AND FEMALE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES

“…The vertical jump was utilized to measure lower extremity power in the vertical plane. 38 The Vertec (Swift Performance Equipment, Wacol, Australia) is a standardized device, with color coded vanes, used to measure jump height performance. First, each participant stood flatfooted to the side of the Vertec (dominant hand side toward the Vertec).…”

“…Height was recorded (cm) from the highest vane moved and the vertical jump height was calculated by subtracting the standing reach height from jump height. 38 Three trials were completed, and the best trial was used for data analysis.…”