Effects of Accentuated Eccentric Versus Concentric Training in Fast Bowlers

Plain-language summary

Fast bowlers in cricket rely heavily on upper arm muscle strength, power, and endurance to deliver high-speed balls and prevent injury. Two primary training approaches, accentuated eccentric and concentric training, are widely used to enhance these physical attributes. Accentuated eccentric training focuses on the muscle-lengthening phase under increased loads, while concentric training emphasizes the muscle-shortening phase. This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of these two training approaches on upper arm muscle girth, strength, and power, providing evidence-based guidance for optimizing fast bowlers' strength and conditioning programs. This randomized clinical trial will investigate the effects of accentuated eccentric versus concentric training on upper arm muscle girth, strength, and power in 44 male fast bowlers aged 18-30 years, who have at least two years of bowling experience. Participants will be randomly assigned in to two groups: Group A, which will undergo an accentuated eccentric training program, and Group B, which will perform concentric-focused training. Both groups will participate in a structured 8-week training regimen with sessions three times per week. Baseline measurements for muscle girth, (measuring tape) strength, (via handheld dynamometer), and power, (measured by medicine ball throw) will be collected and compared with post-intervention assessments. Data will be analyzed using SPSS 26 software

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Trial details