Investigation of the effect of elastic resistance on agility and reaction

Investigation of The Effect of Elastic Resistance on Agility and Reaction Purpose: We think that an externally applied resistance could improve athlete's performance. Our study's purpose is to examine developing effect of elastic resistance that has been used in agility training on agility and reaction time in soccer players. Method: One of the repeated measure methods with control group was used in the study. Participants were selected with randomization as resisted agility group (RAG), Traditional (non-resisted) agility group (TAG) and Control Group (CG). RAG and TAG participated in elastic resisted agility training 2 days in a week during 6 weeks (non-consecutive days). Study was completed with 48 participants (Height: 177,04± 5,06 cm; Weight: 71,75 ± 8.88 kg; Training Age: 9,83 ± 3,23 years; Age: 21 ± 1,84 years) 14 RAG, 12 TAG, 22 CG. Tests were measured at the beginning, 3rd and 6th weeks. Test batteries consist of a) Closed Skill Agility Test (CSAT), b) Reactive Skill Agility Test (RSAT), c) Speed Test (ST), d) Reaction Time Test (RTT). Result: Groups 1st, 3rd and 6th week data compared with Friedman Test analysis method. A significant difference wasn't found for CG in ST (p>0.05). But in other parameters a very significant difference was found (p<0,01). According to CG data; significant difference wasn't found for RTT. But Significant difference was found for other parameters CSAT, RSAT and ST (p<0.01). Performance parameter's difference between groups were compared with Kruskal- Wallis Test and according to obtained data significant difference wasn't found for 1st week but significant data differences between groups in ST and CSAT and very significant difference was found for other parameters on 3rd week (p<0.01). In 6th week significant difference was found for RSAT (p<0.05) and very significant difference for other parameters. Conclusion: While programming, elastic resistance could be used for closed skill agility drills which requires increase in strength.