Enhancing physical attributes and performance in badminton players: efficacy of backward walking training on treadmill.

Ghorpade, Omkar Sudam; Rizvi, Moattar Raza; Sharma, Ankita; Almutairi, Harun J.; Ahmad, Fuzail; Hasan, Shahnaz; Shaik, Abdul Rahim; Seyam, Mohamed K.; Uddin, Shadab; Nanjan, Saravanakumar; Iqbal, Amir; Alghadir, Ahmad H.

Background: Badminton, a dynamic sport, demands players to display exceptional physical attributes such as agility, core stability, and reaction time. Backward walking training on a treadmill has garnered attention for its potential to enhance physical attributes and optimize performance in athletes while minimizing the risk of injuries. Objective: By investigating the efficacy of this novel approach, we aim to provide valuable insights to optimize training regimens and contribute to the advancement of sports science in badminton. Methodology: Sixty-four participants were randomized into a control group (n = 32) and an experimental group (n = 32). The control group received routine exercise training, while the experimental group received routine exercise training along with additional backward walking training on the treadmill. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were taken for core stability using the Plank test, balance using the Star Excursion Balance test, reaction time using the 6-point footwork test, and agility using the Illinois Agility test. Results: The results showed that the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in core stability (p < 0.001), balance (p < 0.001), reaction time (p < 0.05), and agility (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The backward walking training proved to be effective in enhancing these physical attributes in badminton players. Conclusion: Incorporating backward walking exercises into the training regimen of badminton players may contribute to their overall performance.

EQUILIBRIUM testing; BADMINTON players; SPORTS sciences; EXERCISE therapy; PHYSICAL mobility

BMC Sports Science, Medicine & Rehabilitation, 2024, Vol 16, Issue 1, p1

2052-1847

Academic Journal

10.1186/s13102-024-00962-x