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Effects of two different training programs with same workload on throwing velocity by experienced water polo players
Mário C Marques1, Silvério M Liberal, Aldo M Costa
1Research Centre in Sports, Health, and Human Development University of Beira Interior, Portugal.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|February 16, 2013
Summary
Two strength-training programs with identical workloads improved water polo throwing velocity. The combination training group showed a greater increase in land-based water polo throws, suggesting workload is key.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Athletic Training
Background:
- Water polo requires powerful throwing motions.
- Optimizing strength training for throwing velocity is crucial for player performance.
- Different training protocols may yield varying results despite similar workloads.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of two distinct strength-training programs on throwing velocity in water polo players.
- To determine if training program structure influences improvements in throwing speed.
- To investigate the role of training workload (impulse) in enhancing throwing performance.
Main Methods:
- Thirty water polo players were divided into two groups: medicine-ball training and combination training.
- Both groups trained for eight weeks, twice weekly, in addition to regular water polo practice.
- Throwing velocity was measured using Doppler radar before and after the intervention for various throws (water polo ball, medicine balls).
Main Results:
- Both training groups showed significant increases in throwing velocity across different implements (water polo ball, 1-kg and 3-kg medicine balls).
- No significant differences were observed between groups for most throwing tests.
- The combination training group exhibited a statistically significant greater improvement in water polo throwing velocity on land compared to the medicine-ball group.
Conclusions:
- Strength training with equivalent workloads can similarly enhance throwing velocity in water polo.
- While overall improvements are comparable, specific training combinations may offer advantages for certain movements (e.g., land-based water polo throws).
- Training workload (impulse) appears to be a critical factor influencing throwing velocity gains in water polo athletes.
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