IMPACTS OF SHADOW TRAINING ON REACTION TIME AND AGILITY AMONG HANDBALL PLAYERS

Abstract

The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of shadow training on reaction time and agility in handball players. The study involved thirty handball players from Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya Maruthi College of Physical Education, Periyanaickenpalayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, who were selected at the college level. The age range of the participants was 21 to 25 years. The players were divided into two groups, each consisting of fifteen participants. The groups were not intentionally matched. The Experimental Group (Group I) underwent eight weeks of shadow training (ST), while the Control Group (Group II) did not engage in any training program other than their regular activities. The participants' agility was assessed using the 4x10mts shuttle run test, and their reaction time was evaluated using the Penney Cup Test. The collected data was analyzed using a 't' ratio to determine any significant improvements at a confidence level of 0.05. The results revealed a significant improvement in agility and reaction time as a result of shadow training. It is important to note that the limitations of the study include factors such as diet, climate, lifestyle, as well as the participants' previous training. Nevertheless, the findings of this study align with previous research conducted by different experts in the field of sports sciences. In conclusion, shadow training had a significant positive impact on the agility and reaction time of college-level handball players.