Effect of Kettlebell Training versus Plyometric Training on Agility, Static Balance and Dynamic Balance in Volleyball Players: A Research Protocol of an Experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Volleyball is a dynamic sport that places high demands on an athlete’s ability to move quickly and efficiently. Kettlebell training utilises a unique offset weight, challenging core stability, and multijoint coordination, potentially mimicking movements in volleyball. Plyometric training, on the other hand, focuses on rapid muscle contractions to develop power. Despite their popularity, limited research directly compares the effectiveness of these methods for enhancing the skills crucial for volleyball players. Need of the study: Lower limb injuries are common in volleyball players, and improving agility and balance can help in reducing the risk of these injuries. The purpose of the research is to bridge this information disparity by investigating the effects of both kettlebell training and plyometric training. By analysing the results, the authors can gain valuable insights into how each training approach influences these fundamental movement skills. This knowledge can ultimately help in the development of targeted training programs specifically designed to enhance performance and training strategies for volleyball athletes. Aim: To assess the subjects’ agility, static balance, and dynamic balance in volleyball players treated with kettlebell training and plyometric training. Materials and Methods: This two-arm parallel randomised experimental study will be conducted at the Department of Sports Physiotherapy of Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, from July 2023 to July 2024. A total of 50 participants will be assigned to 2 groups, with one group receiving kettlebell training (Group-A) and the other group receiving plyometric training (Group-B). Assessments will be conducted on the first day of intervention and at the end of the sixth week of treatment, respectively. To evaluate the inequality in effect size between the groups, statistical significance will be assessed using either a parametric test or non parametric test at a 5% level of significance. For normally distributed values, a t-test (Unpaired) will be used and for non normally distributed data, non-parametric tests (Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon’s test) will be utilised.