@article{ref1,
title="Computerized agility training improves change-of-direction and balance performance independently of footwear in young adults",
journal="Research quarterly for exercise and sport",
year="2016",
author="Paquette, Max R. and Schilling, Brian K. and Bravo, Joshua D. and Peel, Shelby A. and Li, Yuhua and Townsend, Robert J.",
volume="88",
number="1",
pages="44-51",
abstract="Understanding the effects of training in different footwear on sporting performance would be useful to coaches and athletes. <br><br>PURPOSE: This study compared the effects of computerized agility training using 3 types of footwear on change-of-direction and balance performance in young adults. <br><br>METHOD: Thirty recreationally active young adults (Mage = 22.8 ± 3.1 years; Mheight = 1.71 ± 0.7 m; Mbodymass = 73.4 ± 10.3 kg) were randomly assigned to a 6-week computerized agility training intervention in 1 of 3 footwear groups (n = 10/group): barefoot, minimal footwear, or traditional shoes. Participants had no previous barefoot or minimal-footwear training experience. Dependent variables included change-of-direction test time to completion, Star Excursion Balance Test, and single-leg stability evaluation. Testing was performed at the start of the training program, after 2 weeks, after 4 weeks, and at the end of the training program. <br><br>RESULTS: No group or time interactions were found for any of the dependent variables. Time main effects were observed for the performance measures of change of direction, Star Excursion, and single-leg-with-eyes-open stability evaluation. Participants improved in all 3 tests as early as 2 weeks into the intervention, with improvements continuing through the entire 6-week intervention. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: The lack of interaction and footwear effects suggests that agility and balance improvements during foot agility training are independent of footwear in a recreationally active young-adult population. Computerized agility training improves change-of-direction and balance performance within 2 weeks of training implementation. Future studies should consider footwear training effects in different populations, including frail older adults and athletes.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0270-1367",
doi="10.1080/02701367.2016.1252031",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02701367.2016.1252031"
}