IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

THE IMPACT OF PLYOMETRIC TRAINING AND YOGIC PRACTICES ON SPEED AND MUSCULAR STRENGTH IN WOMEN BASKETBALL PLAYERS: ISOLATED AND COMBINED EFFECTS

Main Article Content

C. Vijayalakshmi, Dr. S. Saroja

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Plyometric Training and Yogic Practices on speed and muscular strength among women basketball players. A sample of sixty female college basketball students aged between 18 to 25 years from Dr. Umayal Ramanadhan College for Women in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India, participated in the study. They were randomly assigned to one of four groups: Plyometric Training, Yogic Exercises, Combined Plyometric and Yogic Practices, and a Control group. Speed was assessed using the 50 meters run test (in seconds), while muscular strength was measured through the Push-ups Test (number of completed push-ups). The intervention spanned 12 weeks, with structured training sessions held three times a week for each group. Plyometric Training focused on explosive movements, Yogic Exercises incorporated various yoga asanas and breathing techniques, and the Combined group engaged in both modalities. The Control group continued with regular activities without any structured intervention. Statistical analysis included paired sample t-tests to assess within-group changes pre- and post-intervention, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to compare mean differences between groups while controlling for potential covariates, and post hoc comparisons using Scheffe's test. The findings reveal significant improvements in both speed and muscular strength among women basketball players following the 12-week intervention involving Plyometric Training, Yogic Practices, and their combination. Plyometric Training, Yogic Practices, and the Combined approach each demonstrated efficacy in enhancing athletic performance. The Combined group exhibited the most substantial improvement, suggesting synergistic effects of integrating Plyometric Training and Yogic Practices.

Article Details