Effects of Integrative Neuromuscular Training Combined With Regular Tennis Training Program on Sprint and Change of Direction of Children

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of integrative neuromuscular training (NMT) on sprint and the ability to change direction for children who are between the ages of 7 and 8 and beginning to play tennis.MethodsThirty-two participants were randomized into a training group (TG; n = 16) and a control group (CG; n = 16). All participants attended tennis classes twice a week for a continuous 8 weeks. In addition, the TG received NMT (e.g., 20-m sprints, running at four corners, rope ladder drills, etc.), which progressed in difficulty every 2 weeks. Pre-intervention and post-intervention measurements, including a 30-m sprint test, a 5–10–5 test, and a 3 × 10 m shuttle run test, were assessed by a Smartspeed laser timing gate system, while the spider agility test was evaluated with a stopwatch.ResultsTwo-way repeated measures ANOVA found significant differences in the interaction between time and group among variables measured. Results were as follows: time in the 30 m sprint (F = 13.467, 95% CI = 7.163–7.506, p = 0.001, η2p = 0.310, Δ = 0.42 s); 5–10–5 test (F = 13.975, 95% CI = 8.696–9.017, p = 0.001, η2p = 0.318, Δ = 0.78 s); 3 × 10 m shuttle run (F = 7.605, 95% CI = 11.213–11.642, p = 0.01, η2p = 0.202, Δ = 0.77 s); and spider agility test (F = 34.555, 95% CI = 28.258–29.670, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.535, Δ = 3.96 s). The results demonstrated a greater decrease in sprint and change of direction (COD) time among the TG than the CG from pre-intervention to post-intervention.ConclusionA regular tennis training combined with NMT program could produce greater improvement in a player’s sprint and ability to change direction when introduced to childhood tennis beginners in a sensitive period, compared to tennis class intervention only.

The effects of functional training on physical fitness and skill-related performance among basketball players: a systematic review

“…However, the studies included in our review may have incorporated FT stimuli that enhanced the coordination between the nervous system and muscles, which is important for executing the complex movements involved in sprinting ( Keiner et al, 2022 ). Better coordination can lead to more efficient movement patterns and faster speeds ( Wang et al, 2022 ). On the other hand, some exercises included in the FT program such as jump, squat, plyometrics, and explosive lifts could build strength and improve power output in muscles, which are crucial for quick starts and rapid acceleration ( Cronin and Hansen, 2005 ; Nimphius et al, 2010 ).…”

Effects of a neuromuscular training program on the performance and inter-limb asymmetries in highly trained junior male tennis players

“…Zhi-Hai Wang et al show that regular tennis training added to a NMT program could increase COD ability [ 47 ]. Also, Quemba-Joya explains that this training methodology (NMT + tennis training) improved post-intervention results: performance enhancement (jumping, speed with CODs, strength and stability improvement), mitigating the risk of injury, and aiding in the development of deficiencies in basic and specific movement skills [ 21 ].…”

“…The selection of exercises was based on a review of the following articles [ 4 , 7 , 25 , 26 , 31 , [47] , [48] , [49] ], their potential effectiveness, variability and progression, and their applicability to the requirements of tennis. An attempt was made to include exercises that either repeated from one source to another or had shown positive results in improving the targeted quality.…”

A 16-week school-based intervention improves physical fitness in Slovenian children: a randomized controlled trial

“…This underscores the importance of exercise programs that are tailored to specific age groups and fitness components. Additionally, Wang et al (2022) , conducted a study that examined the effects of an 8-week neuromuscular training (NMT) method combined with regular tennis training in beginner tennis players aged 7–8 years old. In the 30-m sprint test, they recorded statistically significant differences ( p = 0.001) in speed within the EXP group.…”