Effect of Weight Training on Speed Performance of Handball Players

Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of weight training on speed performance among handball players. A total of 100 male handball players aged between 14–19 years were selected and divided into two groups: an experimental group (n=50) and a control group (n=50). The experimental group underwent a structured 12- week weight training program, while the control group continued their routine activities without any specialized training. Speed performance was measured using the 50-yard dash test, conducted before and after the training period. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were calculated, and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was applied to determine the significance of differences at the 0.05 level.

The results revealed that the experimental group showed improvement in speed performance, as the mean time decreased from 8.12 seconds in the pre-test to 7.20 seconds in the post-test. The control group showed minimal change, with mean values of 8.09 and 8.01 seconds respectively. However, ANCOVA results indicated that the improvement in speed was not statistically significant.

The study concludes that while weight training may contribute to improvements in speed, the effect was not significant within the duration of the study. It is recommended that weight training be combined with speed-specific exercises for better results.

Keywords: Weight Training, Speed, Handball, Physical Fitness, 50 Yard Dash