The effectiveness of speed, agility, quickness training vs high-intensity interval training in improving speed and agility on badminton players

Introduction: Badminton is a fast-paced racket sport which requires player to possess quick reaction, high-speed hitting ability, and rapid movement. These abilities are related to speed and agility which are one of the essential motor demands in badminton. Objective: This study aims to compare the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus speed agility quickness (SAQ) training on agility and speed among badminton players. Methodology: Thirty amateur badminton players participated in this quasi-experimental study. They were split into three groups: the HIIT, the SAQ, and the control group. Players in each group received eight weeks of intervention. The Illinois Agility Test was used to measure agility, and the 30-meter sprint test was used to measure speed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 24. Paired t-test was used to compare pre-post differences in each group. Intergroup comparison was evaluated using one-way ANOVA test. Results: Significant improvements in speed were found in SAQ (p=0,012) and HIIT (p=0,000). The increase in agility were found in all groups but only HIIT found to be statistically significant (p=0.000). Highest improvement in speed was observed in SAQ (3.36%) while highest agility was found in HIIT (3.10%). Discussion: HIIT is known as a potent exercise that activates aerobic and anaerobic energy systems, facilitating player with the chance to enhance the power and speed in badminton and other racket sports by focusing on high-strength muscle fibers. Meanwhile, SAQ training was designed specifically to increase players’ change-of-direction speed and agility performances as well as their ability to sprint and run faster during a game. Conclusions: Both HIIT and SAQ training were equally effective in improving speed and agility in badminton players. These trainings can be used as evidence-based approach to improve skills in badminton players for optimal performance.