Effects of a strength program on physical performance in amateur female padel players

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of an explosive strength training program on the physical performance of amateur padel players. Eight females amateur padel players, aged between 25 and 40, were randomly split up in two groups: a control group (CG, n=4) and an experimental group (EG, n=4). The experimental group performed a 6-week explosive strength training program. Physical performance variables were measured before and after the intervention using several assessments: Change of direction was gauged using a modified padel-specific test (Test 505) with the "COD Timer" application. Bilateral and unilateral horizontal jumps, along with the countermovement jump (CMJ), were measured using the "Myjump" application. Upper extremity strength was evaluated through overhead medicine ball throwing. The experimental group showed significant improvements in all analyzed variables except for the bilateral horizontal jump, dis-playing an overall enhancement in their performance following the intervention. These findings contribute to shedding light on this sport, especially within the amateur domain, as most social clubs rely on it for sustenance despite the limited available information.