The Effect of 8-Week Plyometric and Contrast Training on Speed Performance of Male Handball Players

This study aims to investigate the effects of 8-week plyometric and contrast training on speed performance in handball players. Thirty male athletes (age: 20.5 ± 2.1 years, height: 182.3 ± 5.6 cm, body weight: 78.4 ± 6.8 kg) with at least 5 years of handball experience volunteered to participate in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to plyometric training (PA, n=15) and contrast training (CT, n=15) groups using computer generated random numbers (1:1 ratio). The training sessions were performed three days a week for 8 weeks. Performance measurements (10 m, 20 m, 30 m sprint, T-test agility and simple reaction time) were performed before and after training. Data were analyzed by paired t-test for within-group differences and independent t-test for between-group differences (p < 0.05). Results showed that both types of training resulted in significant improvements in speed, agility and reaction time (p < 0.05). The PA group improved in 10 m and 20 m sprints, while the KA group improved in 30 m sprint and agility.