The effect of table tennis training on selected performance parameters in children aged 12-14

This study aims to assess the impact of table tennis training on flexibility, agility, vertical jump, horizontal jump, and hand and foot reaction times in children aged 12-14, determining its contribution to the development of these physical attributes. A total of 40 athletes (10 male study group, 10 female study group, 10 male control group, 10 female control group) who trained at least 3 times a week were included in the research. The study group engaged in table tennis training for a total of 24 hours over 8 weeks, practicing 3 days a week for 1 hour each day. The training program focused on improving agility, flexibility, vertical jump, horizontal jump, hand, and foot reaction times. The control group did not undergo any training. SPSS 23 was used for the statistical analysis of research data. Since the data showed a normal distribution, parametric tests were used for both within-group and between-group comparisons. Paired-sample t-tests were preferred for within-group comparisons, while independent samples t-tests were used for between-group comparisons. A significance level of 0.05 was accepted. According to the results of the pre-test and post-test mean difference for male table tennis players, no statistically significant differences were found between the groups for agility, flexibility, vertical jump, horizontal jump, hand reaction, and foot reaction parameters (respectively, p=0.124, p=0.552, p=0.343, p=0.078, p=0.224, p=0.213). For female table tennis players, statistically significant differences were found between the groups in terms of agility, flexibility, hand reaction, and foot reaction parameters (respectively, p=0.003, p=0.005, p=0.003, p=0.296), while no significant differences were observed for vertical and horizontal jumps (respectively, p=0.104, p=0.095). In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of specific training programs designed to enhance the performance of table tennis players in influencing certain physical attributes. However, considering individual differences and the diversity of training effects, programs should be personalized and regularly evaluated. Adhering to these recommendations may more effectively enhance the performance of table tennis players.