Prevalence of Functional Strength in Kabaddi Raiders and Defenders

Abstract Background: Kabaddi is high-intensity contact sport that requires players to perform rapid, complex, and multi-directional movements such as sprinting, lunging, twisting, balancing, and resisting opponents. Functional strength is essential for optimal performance in kabaddi, as it integrates strength, balance, core stability, coordination, and neuromuscular control. Raiders and defenders have distinct roles and physical demands during match play, which may influence the prevalence and level of functional strength. Understanding this difference is important for designing position-specific training and injury-prevention programs. Objective: To compare the prevalence and level of function strength among kabaddi raiders and defenders undergoing functional strength training. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducated on 20 male kabaddi players aged 18-25 years, selected using purposive sampling. The participants included raiders and defenders with 2-3 years of continuous kabaddi playing experience and prior exposure to functional strength training. The study was conducted at Devendrar college of Physiotherapy, Tirunelveli, Marutha nilakarumpulikal sports club, semanoor, over a duration of four weeks. Functional strength and related performance parameters were assessed using the functional movement screen (FMS), Y-Balance test, core endurance test, and balance stability exercise. The collected data were statistically analyzed to compare functional strength parameters between raiders and defenders. Results: The results demonstrated differences in functional strength and performance parameters between kabaddi raiders and defenders. Raiders showed better performance in movement patterns requiring agility, balance, and core control, while defenders demonstrated greater strength and stability in tasks involving resistance and postural control. The findings suggest position-specific variation in functional strength among kabaddi players. Conclusion: The study concludes that functional strength varies between kabaddi raiders and defenders due to their different playing roles and physical demands. Position-specific functional strength training is essential to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. Coaches and physiotherapist should design role-oriented training programs rather than using uniform training protocols for kabaddi players.