Impact of an 18-week basketball program on fitness outcomes: A club-based (BPCM) approach for female students

Abstract

Introduction: Innovative physical education programs are crucial for addressing student fitness needs and exploring novel training methodologies. This study investigated the effectiveness of a club-structured basketball program on fitness outcomes in female university students compared to traditional PE classes. Methods: Sixty-one healthy female students from An Giang University-Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City (Agu-VNU-HCM) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group participating in an 18-week Basketball Program Club Model (PBCM) or a control group continuing regular PE coursework. Five fitness tests assessed outcomes: 30-second sit-ups, 30-meter sprint, 4 x 10-meter shuttle run, long jump, and a 5-minute run for maximal aerobic speed (MAS). Results: The EG demonstrated significant improvements in speed (6.13% increase), agility, and MAS (23.56% increase) compared to the CG. The CG showed minimal improvement, with a 1.88% increase in speed and a 6.84% increase in MAS. No significant differences were observed between groups for leg explosiveness or core strength. Discussion: The BPCM proved more effective than traditional PE in enhancing specific fitness parameters, suggesting that the club format may provide a more engaging and motivating environment for fitness development. The lack of significant findings in leg explosiveness and core strength warrants further investigation and potential program modifications. Conclusion: Implementing the BPCM holds promise for improving the fitness levels of Agu-VNU-HCM students, fostering a more engaging PE experience, and increasing student satisfaction. Further research should explore the program's long-term effects and potential for adaptation across diverse student populations.