Scholars International Journal of Anatomy and Physiology (SIJAP)
Volume-8 | Issue-06 | 126-131
Original Research Article
Influence of Speed Endurance and Speed–Agility–Quickness Training on Cardiovascular Fitness in Male College-Level Kho-Kho Players
Dr. P. K. Kavithashri, Mr. A. Ganesan, Dr S. Rameshkumar, Mr. P. Natarajan
Published : Dec. 24, 2025
Abstract
Sports performance in high-intensity, intermittent games like Kho-Kho rely heavily on cardiovascular endurance, speed, agility, and movement efficiency. Structured training programs that target these components are essential for optimizing player performance. This study investigated the effects of speed endurance training, saq (speed, agility, and quickness) training, and combined training on cardiovascular endurance among collegiate male Kho-Kho players. A total of 60 participants, aged 18–25 years and with prior intercollegiate competitive experience, were randomly assigned to four groups: Speed Endurance Training (Group I), SAQ Training (Group II), Combined Training (Group III), and a Control Group (Group IV) that did not receive any specific training intervention. The intervention lasted 12 weeks, with three 60-minute sessions per week conducted on alternate days in the evening to ensure consistency in environmental conditions. A randomized pre-test–post-test control group design was employed, with cardiovascular endurance measured using standardized assessments before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis using paired t-tests, ANCOVA, and Scheffe’s post hoc test revealed significant improvements in cardiovascular endurance in all experimental groups compared to the control group. Among the training programs, the Combined Training Group exhibited the greatest overall improvement, indicating that integrating Speed Endurance and SAQ training produces superior cardiovascular adaptations. These findings underscore the importance of multidimensional, sport-specific training strategies in enhancing the physiological and performance capacities necessary for competitive Kho-Kho players.