The Effect of Core Muscle Exercises on Energy Expended During Physical Effort, Motor Balance, and Dribbling Speed in Basketball Players Under 16 Years Old

Abstract

This research aimed to develop core muscle exercises for basketball players under 16 years old and to determine the effectiveness of these exercises in improving energy expenditure during physical effort, motor balance, and dribbling speed in these players. The researcher used an experimental design with a pre-test/post-test for two equivalent groups (experimental and control) as it was suitable for the nature of the research. The research population was defined as young basketball players under 16 years old from Babil Governorate. Al-Hillah Sports Club was selected by lottery for the 2024-2025 training season, totaling 16 players. A sample was then selected the research was conducted using a lottery system, dividing the sample into two groups (experimental and control), with 8 players in each group. The researcher prepared several exercises, which were implemented during the special preparation period. The proposed exercises began on February 1, 2025, and continued for 8 weeks. The total number of training sessions was 24, with 3 sessions per week on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays. The total duration of each training session was 120 minutes, with the main training segment lasting 30-45 minutes. The training method used was high-intensity interval training (HIIT), with an intensity ranging from 75% to 100% of the player's maximum performance level. One of the most important conclusions reached by the researcher was the existence of statistically significant differences between the pre-test and post-test results for the experimental group in the studied variables. This indicates that the specific physical exercises used were effective in developing the physiological, physical, and skill variables.