Training to Improve Pro-Agility Performance: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Effective directional change in sport is imperative to success in key game situations. Change of direction (COD) ability is underpinned by various athletic qualities which can be developed through specific and non-specific training methods. This review examined the effect of specific and non-specific training methods on pro-agility performance, by analysing the intervention type and resulting magnitude of training effects on pro-agility shuttle performance. A total of 20 studies were included for review. Data from 638 subjects and 29 intervention groups involving seven different training methods were extracted and analysed in relation to training method classification and primary outcome measures. Interventions involving sprint training, plyometric training, resistance training, and combined resistance, plyometric, and sprint training were found to produce statistically significant positive change on pro-agility performance per session (p < 0.05). Sprint training (0.108 ES), plyometric training (0.092 ES), resistance training (0.087 ES), and combined resistance, plyometric, and sprint training (0.078 ES) methods were found to have the highest per session training effect. While total time is the typical unit of measure for this test, different types of training may lead to preferential improvements in either acceleration, deceleration, or COD phases of the pro-agility shuttle. Specifically, resisted or inclined sprinting may develop the linear acceleration phases, unilateral resistance training may promote increased strength to overcome the imposed forces during the deceleration and COD phases, multiplanar plyometrics can help enhance stretch-shortening cycle capabilities across different force vectors, and a combination of two or more of these methods may enable simultaneous development of each of these qualities.

Change-of-Direction Speed Assessments and Testing Procedures in Tennis: A Systematic Review

“…As each phase has distinct biomechanical demands (13), these 2 athletes might potentially benefit from focusing on different neuromuscular qualities (e.g., eccentric vs. concentric muscle contractions). In an attempt to gain additional insight into an athlete's CODS performance, researchers have recently assessed additional outcome metrics, such as COD deficit (5,10,17,23,24,34,54,82,94,104), deceleration deficit (5,7), ground contact times during the penultimate step and the plant step (14-16,21,96,102), time at different intervals of the CODS test through additional timing gates (33), and velocity in and out of the turn (15,52,101,102). Several correlational analyses have found significant relationships between these metrics and total time in the CODS test (7,10,(14)(15)(16)(17)23,52,82,94,101,102,104).…”

Field-based fitness measures improve via an immersive virtual reality exergaming platform: a randomized controlled trial

“…In a recent review article, Suchomel and others observed that 35 studies, 78% of the total studied, noted a moderate or greater relationship between muscular strength and COD ability, with 27 (60%) showing at least a large relationship (Suchomel et al, 2016). More specifically, resistance training has been shown to be one of the most effective ways to decrease time in the 5-10-5 Agility Test (Forster et al, 2022). Exergaming may have a role as well.…”

Assessment of speed & agility components for 10-14 years old

“…both notes the increased risk of injuries in young soccer players. This factor is essential and indicates that coaches and sports staffs should use age-appropriate injury prevention programs to protect the health of young players.-Age Appropriate Training: Studies(Forster et al 2022 andDahab 2009) emphasize the importance of age-appropriate training programs. This is a critical factor that contributes to improving speed, strength, decision making and motor skills in teenagers.These comparisons show, in general, that age has a positive influence on the development of sports skills in young people.…”