The Effect of Training With A Respiratory Resistance Mask on The Ability to Repeat High-Intensity Efforts And on Specific Endurance in Handball Players

Dheffar Abdulkadhim Mutlag

doi:10.66968/IJESSR.5jk3k169

Authors

Dheffar Abdulkadhim Mutlag Alfarahidi University Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66968/IJESSR.5jk3k169

Keywords:

Respiratory resistance mask, High-intensity interval training, Specific endurance, Handball, University players

Abstract

Backgroud: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of training with a respiratory resistance mask on the ability to repeat high-intensity efforts and on specific endurance among players of the Al-Farahidi University handball team.

Methods: The researcher employed an experimental approach using a two-group design an experimental group and a control group with pre- and post-tests, as this was appropriate to the nature of the problem. The sample consisted of 20 university students, who were randomly divided into two equal groups of 10 players each, after verifying the homogeneity of the sample and the equivalence of the two groups. The experimental group performed the physical exercises specified in the training programme whilst wearing a respiratory resistance mask for eight weeks, at a rate of three sessions per week, with a gradual increase in the level of resistance. The control group performed the same exercises without a mask. The ability to repeat high-intensity efforts was assessed using a repeated sprint test, whilst endurance was measured using a field test specific to handball performance. The data were analysed using the mean, standard deviation and t-tests for paired and independent samples.

Results: The results showed a decrease in the mean time for the repeated sprint test in the experimental group from (5.08) to (4.91) seconds, representing an improvement of (3.3 per cent), and an increase in the distance covered in the specific endurance test from (214) to (236) metres, representing an increase of (10.3 per cent), with statistical significance in favour of the post-test. The experimental group also outperformed the control group in the post-test for both variables.

Conclusions: Eight weeks of training with respiratory resistance masks proved effective in improving the ability to repeat high-intensity efforts as well as increasing endurance in the players of the Al-Farahidi University handball team, where the mask-wearing group showed significantly superior performance compared to the control group.

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