Effects of strength training on body structure and muscle development in female basketball players: A case study of the NUM "falcons" team

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a structured strength training program on body structure and muscle development in female basketball players, using the NUM's "Falcons" team as a case study. The study was conducted with 13 female athletes from the Shonkhoruud (Falcons), the women's basketball team of the National University of Mongolia (NUM). Over a four-month period, the athletes followed a structured strength training program that incorporated both general and functional exercises using bodyweight and external resistance. Anthropometric data related to body structure and muscle mass were collected using 13 specific indicators at three period points: baseline (0 months), mid-point (2 months), and post-intervention (4 months). The data were analyzed using Repeated Measures ANOVA to identify statistically significant changes over time. The analysis revealed statistically significant changes in several anthropometric indicators. Specifically, the shoulder circumference increased by 1.6 cm, the upper arm circumference by 1.3 cm, and the waist circumference decreased by an average of 2.9 cm (p<0.05). These findings demonstrate that a structured strength training program can significantly enhance muscle development and improve body composition and structure in female basketball players. The study supports the inclusion of targeted strength training as an effective component of athletic development for female athletes.