A study of anaerobic fitness of volleyball players in Punjab

Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anaerobic fitness of volleyball players in Punjab. Participants were required to perform six sprints, each covering a distance of 35 meters. Materials & methods: Twenty-five (N=25) trained male volleyball players, aged between 18 and 28 years, were selected for this study. Anthropometric measurements were taken using a standard rod and weighing machine. Result: The mean age, height, and weight of the volleyball players were 21.12±2.20 years, 180.84±8.28 cm, and 71.36±9.68 kg, respectively. The mean sprint times for the six sprints were 5.04±0.35 s, 5.11±0.42 s, 5.10±0.38 s, 5.27±0.43 s, 5.18±0.36 s, and 5.27±0.37 s. The corresponding power outputs were 698.8±179.99 W, 672.8±196.02 W, 672.08±158.83 W, 602.72±162.94 W, 640.04±130.50 W, and 593.4±113.85 W. The maximum, minimum, and average power outputs were 758.88±158.15 W, 542.04±125.47 W, and 646.76±141.34 W, respectively. The fatigue index was calculated as 7.02±3.18 W/s. Conclusion: The study concludes that repeated sprint performance declines due to lactate accumulation and reduced anaerobic energy production. To counteract this, volleyball players should incorporate training that enhances lactate tolerance and improves anaerobic endurance.