Effects of two combined training protocols on the psychophysiological,performance and technical responses in young basketball players: Comparison of one vs. two changes of direction

Abstract

This study compared the effects of combining small-sided basketball games (SSGs) with repeated sprint ability with one change of direction (RSA_one) and repeated sprint ability with two changes of direction (RSA_two) in young amateur basketball players. Twenty-four basketball players (average age 16.4 ± 0.5 years) were randomly divided into either the SSGs + RSA_one (n = 12) or SSGs + RSA_two (n = 12) three times per week for five weeks. SSGs consisted of two 6–8 min bouts of 2- and 3-a-side with 2 min rest periods. The players in RSA_one performed 3–4 sets of 5–7 times 15 m shuttle all-out sprints, while the players in RSA_two performed 3–4 sets of 5–7 times 10 m shuttle all-out sprints. Pre- and post-intervention testing included a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1, 20 m sprint test, vertical and horizontal jump tests, repeated sprint ability test, Y-balance test, T-drill agility test with/without the ball and technical skills. The SSGs + RSA_two group demonstrated higher improvement in 5 m sprint, repeated sprint ability, jumping and balance responses than the SSGs + RSA_one (p ≤ 0.05, d values ranging from 1.32 to 4.73). Furthermore, the SSGs + RSA_two group induced higher perceived exertion, internal training loading and physical enjoyment compared with the RSA_one (p ≤ 0.05, d values ranging from 0.99 to 3.28). These findings showed that SSGs + RSA_two is a more effective training program to increase young basketball players’ sprint, repeated sprint, jumping and balance responses. Moreover, this training approach in youth basketball players may lead to better physical performance development while improving enjoyment.