Training program for developing the qualities of flexibility and kinetic speed and its impact on performing certain holds (throws from the back) for cadet-level freestyle wrestlers

The research endeavors to design a training program aimed at enhancing flexibility, kinetic speed, and specific wrestling holds (Over-the-back throws) for cadet-level freestyle wrestlers. It investigates the impact of this program on the improvement of flexibility, kinetic speed, and the execution of specific wrestling holds from over the back. The experimental method was selected as the most suitable for addressing the nature of the problem. The sample comprised 21 cadet-level wrestlers from the Shula Sports Club in Baghdad, with 2 wrestlers excluded due to injuries and 5 representing the pilot study. The remaining 14 wrestlers were randomly assigned to two equal groups (experimental and control). Preliminary tests were conducted on both research groups to assess flexibility, kinetic speed, and the performance of the studied holds. Physical tests involved measuring spinal column flexibility, hip joint flexibility, kinetic speed, and performance in the studied wrestling holds. The experimental group underwent a specially designed training program to enhance the research variables. Following the completion of the training program, post-tests and measurements were conducted under the same conditions as the preliminary assessments. Statistical analysis, utilizing SPSS, revealed that the training program significantly influenced the study variables in favour of the experimental group when compared to the control group. The researcher recommends the inclusion of flexibility and kinetic speed exercises due to their positive effects on developing over-the-back wrestling holds for cadet-level freestyle wrestlers.