Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises on the Spiking Ability of District-Level Volleyball Players

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a structured core-strengthening exercise programme on the spiking ability of district-level volleyball players. Fifteen volleyball spikers aged 15–20 years from the Srinagar district of Kashmir were selected as subjects through purposive sampling. The study employed a single-group pre-test and post-test experimental design. Core strength and endurance were assessed using the Plank Hold Test and Sit-Up Test, while spiking ability was evaluated through a customized Volleyball Spiking Accuracy Test. Following the pre-test assessment, the participants underwent a structured core-strengthening exercise programme designed to improve trunk stability, muscular endurance, and overall core function. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and paired-samples t-tests at a 0.05 level of significance through JAMOVI software. The results revealed significant improvements in core strength variables. Sit-up performance increased significantly from a mean score of 27.87 to 30.67 repetitions (t = -6.089, p < .001), while plank hold duration improved from 71.53 seconds to 76.13 seconds (t = -5.901, p < .001). Spiking accuracy also increased from a mean score of 22.60 to 24.40; however, the improvement was not statistically significant (t = -1.79, p = .095). The findings indicate that core-strengthening exercises are highly effective in enhancing core muscular strength and endurance among volleyball players. Although improvements in spiking accuracy were observed, they did not reach statistical significance, suggesting that technical volleyball skills require integrating sport-specific practice with physical conditioning. The study concludes that core-strengthening exercises provide an important physical foundation for volleyball performance and should be incorporated into comprehensive training programmes aimed at improving athletic performance and reducing injury risk.