Work

Effectiveness of core strength training for racket sport athletes’ performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: This meta-analysis examined the effects of core strength training (CST) on physical fitness and technical performance in racket sport athletes. Eighteen studies involving tennis, badminton, and table tennis were included. Compared with control conditions, CST was associated with significant improvements in several physical performance outcomes, including balance, agility, core endurance, and muscular strength. In addition, CST demonstrated beneficial effects on technical performance indicators such as ball velocity, spin control, and shot accuracy. Given the shared biomechanical demands of racket sports, including trunk rotation, kinetic chain efficiency, and coordinated whole-body movement, these findings support the role of CST as a targeted, sport-specific training strategy. This study provides the first quantitative synthesis focusing exclusively on racket sport athletes, offering practical insights for coaches and practitioners seeking to enhance performance within high-speed, multidirectional racket sport contexts.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-39391-w

Authors: Xinwei Yu, Hang Yin, Jia Zhang

Institutions: Zhengzhou Yellow River Nursing Vocational College, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Chongqing University

Language: English

Topic: Sports Performance and Training

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690