Effect of Individualized Training Based on Change of Direction Deficit on Speed Performance in Basketball Players

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Linear and change of direction (COD) speed are critical performance factors in basketball.
• Understanding the impact of specific training interventions on these speed components is essential for player development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of an individualized COD deficit-based training program on linear speed and COD efficiency in basketball players.
• To compare the outcomes of this training over 4 and 8 weeks.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-six male basketball players were divided into an intervention group (individualized COD deficit training) and a control group (nonindividualized training).
• Both groups trained twice weekly, with assessments at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.
• Tests included 10-meter linear speed and various COD tests (45°, 90°, 180° cuts).

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in multidirectional speed efficiency within 4 weeks (effect size [ES] ≥ 1.61, p < 0.01).
• After 8 weeks, the intervention group exhibited significant improvements in mean speed performance (mean difference [MD] -0.09, ES = 0.34, p < 0.01).
• The 180° COD test showed the most substantial changes (MD ≤ -0.18, ES ≥ 0.44, p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

• An individualized COD deficit-based training program effectively enhances speed performance in basketball players.
• Improvements in multidirectional speed efficiency are evident after 4 weeks, with broader speed enhancements seen by 8 weeks.
• Coaches should balance linear and multidirectional speed training demands based on player needs in basketball.