Abstract:
The objective of this research was to study the effects of the modified Speed Agility and Quickness (SAQ) training program on bases running speed, agility and leg power of college softball players. Twenty one college softball players of Burapha University participated in the study. Tests of base running speed, agility and leg power were performed before, during (6 th week), and after training program. Base running speed test using Smart Speed recorded the time of running from home plate to the 2nd base (passing the 1st base). The Illinois Agility Run Test was used for agility test. Isokinetic machine (Cybex, Humac Norm) was used to measure leg power. The modified SAQ training program was used after daily training program for 30-45 minutes, 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Data were collected and compared using Repeatedmeasure ANOVA.
Results showed that the modified SAQ training program significantly decreased times of base running speed test (p<.05). Times of agility test was also significantly decreased (p<.05), and leg power were improved (p<.05).
It was concluded that the modified SAQ training program for 8 weeks could improve the base running speed, agility and leg power of college softball players.