Effect of flywheel resistance training on change of direction performance in team sports: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Change of direction (CoD) ability is a key determinant of performance in team sports. Flywheel resistance training (FRT) has been proposed as an effective modality to improve CoD performance due to its emphasis on eccentric overload. This system review evaluates the effectiveness of FRT in enhancing CoD performance among team sports athletes. METHODS: We followed PRISMA 2020. SPORTDiscus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched through January 1, 2024 (Google Scholar screened for additional records). Eligible studies were randomized controlled or randomized crossover trials in team sport athletes, comparing FRT with non-flywheel comparators, with ≥4 weeks duration and at least 1 CoD outcome. Standardized mean differences (Hedges g) with 95% CIs were pooled using fixed- or random-effects models according to heterogeneity (I2). Egger's test for small-study effects was performed when k ≥ 10. Study quality was appraised with the National Institutes of Health tool. RESULTS: Meta-analysis revealed a significant enhancement in CoD performance following FRT compared to control interventions (effect size [ES] = -0.62). Notably, FRT exhibited greater efficacy among adult athletes (ES = -1.07; 95% CI = -1.51, -0.64) in contrast to those aged under 16 (ES = 0.16; 95% CI = -0.56, 0.89). Additionally, training frequencies of <2 sessions per week demonstrated a more substantial effect (ES = -1.18; 95% CI = -1.71, -0.64) compared to more frequent sessions (ES = -0.37; 95% CI = -0.93, 0.18). Moreover, extended training durations exceeding 8 weeks yielded superior outcomes (ES = -1.46; 95% CI = -2.04, -0.88) compared to shorter durations (ES = -0.44; 95% CI = -0.93, 0.04). Evaluation tests such as the T-test (ES = -2.10; 95% CI = -3.43, -0.77), Illinois agility test (ES = -1.19; 95% CI = -1.80, -0.57), and V-cut test (ES = -0.65; 95% CI = -0.96, -0.33) exhibited superior sensitivity in detecting CoD improvements over the shuttle run test (ES = -0.27; 95% CI = -0.82, 0.29). CONCLUSION: FRT is an effective strategy for improving CoD performance in team sport athletes, particularly when implemented with lower frequency and longer duration. The observed benefits are likely attributed to enhanced eccentric strength, neuromuscular efficiency, and braking capacity.