Effects of Heavy-Load Resistance Training on Handball Players
Author Information
Author(s): Bjørn Fristrup, Peter Krustrup, Anders Kløve Petz, Jesper Bencke, Mette K. Zebis, Per Aagaard
Primary Institution: University of Southern Denmark
Hypothesis
Does eight weeks of undulating heavy-load resistance training improve lower limb mechanical muscle function and sports-specific performance in elite female team handball players?
Conclusion
The study found that designated resistance training during the off-season effectively improved agility performance and maintained sprint capacity in elite female team handball players.
Supporting Evidence
- Agility performance improved for the resistance training group by 3.5%.
- Maximal knee extensor peak torque increased by 4.5% in the resistance training group.
- The control group showed impaired agility and sprint performance after the intervention.
- Both groups improved vertical jump height, but only the resistance training group improved relative jump height.
Takeaway
The study shows that doing heavy exercises in the off-season helps handball players get better at quick movements and running.
Methodology
The study was a randomized controlled trial with participants block randomized into a resistance training group and a control group, tested before and after an eight-week intervention.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the high dropout rate and inconsistent training protocols in the control group.
Limitations
45% of participants completed the study, with many dropouts due to external factors like logistical issues and changes in coaching staff.
Participant Demographics
Elite female team handball players from four clubs in the Danish Women’s Handball League, aged approximately 23 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.008
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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