Effect of Six-Week Traditional Resistance and Functional Training On Functional Performance in Female Netball Players
Abstract Background Improving quality of functional movements in athletes generally requires additional training targeting specific functional deficiencies. However, well-rounded, traditional strength and conducting program should also improve player’s movement quality. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to compare the effect of two different six-week interventions on functional score of female netball players. Methods In a randomized controlled study, players were divided into control and intervention group. Both groups completed identical six-week strength and conditioning program, with the intervention group also completing additional corrective exercises three sessions per week during the same period. Results The results indicate significant main effect in total FMS® score (f= 9.85, p = 0.004). However, the differences in total score may be attributed mainly to differences between groups in active straight leg raise (p = 0.004) and trunk stability push-up test (p = 0.02), as other individual tests demonstrated similar time and group effect. Conclusions These results indicate that a well-rounded strength and conditioning program should result in functional as well as physical performance improvements. However, trainers may include additional functional or corrective exercises as part of the recovery training session to correct individual athlete’s movement patterns. More sport-specific research on functional movement scoring is required to devise effective and sport-specific interventions.