Effectiveness of Post Activation Potentiation Versus Complex Contrast Training on Speed, Agility and Strength in Male Hockey Players - An Experimental Study

BACKGROUND: Hockey is a sport which requires a high number of repeated near-maximal exertion. It is a physical activity that demands high levels of anaerobic and aerobic capacity in addition to physical strength and power. A successful shot in field hockey requires generating high velocity and power through body rotational movements. A technique called the "slap shot" or "push pass" is more often used by the hockey players to maximize the force transferred to the ball. PURPOSE: To determine the effects of Post activation potentiation and Complex contrast training on speed, agility and strength in male hockey players. METHOD: Total 34 players were included and divided into two groups (17 in each group). Group A was given Post activation potentiation training and Group B was given Complex contrast training for 4 weeks (3 sessions per week.) 20-meter sprint test, Modified agility T- test, 1 RM squat test and 1 RM bench press test were used as outcome measures and pre and post-intervention measures were taken. RESULT: Intergroup analysis by independent t-test showed statistically significant improvement in speed, agility, lower limb strength and upper limb strength in hockey players with the use of Post activation potentiation training and Complex contrast training (P value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Post Activation potentiation training was found to be more predominant in improving speed, lower limb strength and upper limb strength in hockey players than Complex contrast training. Also, Post Activation potentiation training and Complex contrast training were equally effective in improving agility in hockey players.