The effect of bodyweight circuit training on flexibility and strength endurance in male tennis players

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Flexibility and strength endurance are essential components of tennis performance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of bodyweight circuit training (BCT) in enhancing flexibility and strength endurance in male university tennis players. Materials and Methods. This study employed a true experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group. A total of 30 male tennis players, aged 19–23 years, were recruited from a university. Participants were randomly assigned to either a control group (CTr, n=15) or a training group (TRg, n=15) based on predefined criteria. The training group underwent a bodyweight circuit training (BCT) program three times per week for four weeks. Flexibility was assessed using the Sit and Reach Test. Strength endurance was evaluated through three tests: upper body strength endurance with the 60-second Push-Up Test, abdominal strength endurance with the 60-second Sit-Up Test, and back strength endurance with the 60-second Back Extension Test. Measurements were taken at baseline (pre) and after four weeks (post). Data analysis was conducted using paired and independent sample t-tests, with a significance level set at 5%. Results. Significant improvements in flexibility, upper body strength endurance, abdominal strength endurance, and back strength endurance were observed in the training group (TRg) between pre- and post-intervention (p ≤ 0.05). In contrast, no significant changes were found in the control group (CTr) (p ≥ 0.05). At baseline, no significant differences were detected between the TRg and CTr groups (p ≥ 0.05). However, post-intervention analysis revealed significantly greater improvements in the TRg group compared to the CTr group (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions. BCT implementation in training programs may contribute to improved physical performance. These findings suggest that BCT could be integrated into structured training regimens to support athletic development.

Keywords

• bodyweight circuit training
• flexibility
• strength endurance
• tennis player