How to Be a Successful Basketball Player - Research Proposal Example

Case Study Report of a Basketball Player Table of Contents Introduction 3 Explanation of Interdisciplinary Sport Science Support and Performance Enhancement 3 Rationale for the Case Study 4 Aims of the Case Study 4 Review of Scientific Literature Underpinning the Case Studies Sport 5 Current and Relevant Physiological Research 5 Current and Relevant Biomechanical Research 6 Current and Relevant Psychological Research 7 Method 8 Subject Information 8 Equipment 9 Protocol 9 Treatment of Data 10 Ethical Considerations 11 References 12 Bibliography 15 Introduction Explanation of Interdisciplinary Sport Science Support and Performance Enhancement Basketball is recognized as one of the most popular court games. Over the previous two decades, there has been significant accumulation of scientific data regarding basketball physiology and medicine (Drinkwater, Pyne & McKenna, 2008; Ostojic, Mazic & Dikic, 2006). In recent years, several questions have been raised with regards to interdisciplinary sport science support and performance enhancement in basketball. The most debated question in this regard can be ascertained as whether basketball should be regarded as an aerobic or anaerobic game. Basketball has been classified by majority of sport investigators as a game sport, which depends on ‘adenosine triphosphate-phosphocreatine system’ and ‘lactic acid system.’ Nevertheless, it has been argued that a large volume of literature on fitness testing in field and individual sports such as running and cycling are performed more consistently, while the same for court sports such as basketball is contended to be fairly less. In the past, investigations pertaining to physiological and anthropometric profiles of elite basketball players have been evaluated. Notably, the performance pertaining to team sport is generally associated with various factors, specifically fitness of the team members, psychological attributes, team strategies and sport-specific expertise among others. In the present day context, several changes in the rules and development of strategies have been witnessed in the domain of basketball (Schelling & Torres-Ronda, 2013). Correspondingly, such changes have resulted in increasing physical demands of basketball players (Scanlan, Dascombe, Reaburn & Dalbo, 2012). In order to be a successful basketball player, a well-built physical fitness is extremely important for an athlete. Alongside, body size of players and elements including experience, stamina, body composition, stability between anaerobic fitness and aerobic fitness are determined to be vital for evaluating the performance of successful players. Coaches as well as sport scientists are identified to use battery of sport-specific physical tests for evaluating the aforesaid factors such as body size and composition, stamina and aerobic fitness. Testing is usually performed to determine the changes in athletes as well as to draw understanding regarding the efficacy of training programs. Sports science research has established certain values for determining the degree of changes within-athletes as well as between-athletes (Drinkwater, Hopkins, McKenna, Hunt & Pyne, 2005). Lately developed statistical approaches like magnitude-based inferences are applied for developing meaningful interpretation related to fitness test findings in the field both for athletes and for coaches. In this regard, it has been anticipated that prudent selection and application of tests would facilitate in drawing specific interpretation of data, which would eventually facilitate in improving the significance of fitness testing, particularly in ‘high-level basketball programs’ (Drinkwater & et. al., 2005). Rationale for the Case Study The case study would facilitate in extending the knowledge and understanding related to sub-disciplines of sport along with exercise science, particularly biomechanics, physiology and psychology to a higher level. The integration of real-life sport as well as exercise settings will postulate ethical challenges and will further allow the development as well as the assessment of contemplative methods. Aims of the Case Study The aims of the case study have been briefly listed below. Critically review of the literatures along with other information sources and relate to subject-specific concepts To accentuate the combination of theory and practice within the framework of current requirements and priorities pertaining to basketball To conduct test to be able to compare true VO2max vs. estimated Vo2max and establish whether study conducted by Metaxas, Koutlianos, Kouidi, & Deligiannis (2005) is accurate Review of Scientific Literature Underpinning the Case Studies Sport Current and Relevant Physiological Research According to Czuba, Zając, Maszczyk, Roczniok, Poprzęcki, Garbaciak & Zając (2013), in an international basketball competition, a player generally covers area from 3500 to 6100m, but is relatively dependent on the position as well as the tactics. At the same time, high intensity activities are argued to generally occur at an average rate of 20-25s, which last for 1-4s. Accordingly, these durations are scattered with certain low and reasonable intensity activities such as ‘walking’, ‘inbound passing’ ‘jogging’ and ‘free throw shooting’ among others. In this regard, Czuba & et. al. (2013) further claimed that the intensity of the game tends to vary rapidly. Notably, the authors estimated that in a single game of basketball, players’ changes direction over 1000 times. Besides, notion of altitude or hypoxic training is claimed to be a general practice for enhancing aerobic ability as well as endurance performance. In view of effectiveness of hypoxic training, the authors claimed that intermittent hypoxic training protocol coupled with high intensity breaks (as an illustration ‘4 or 5x4-min bouts at 90% of vVO2max-hyp’) is a useful mean of training for enhancing aerobic capacity (Czuba & et. al. 2013). Similarly, Gocentas, Jascaniniene, Poprzęcki, Jaszczanin & Juozulynas (2011) noted that basketball game involves considerable distribution of players in accordance with the playing positions. Typically, players in the game are identified to be segregated into five categories based on the playing positions. Gocentas & et. al. (2011) in their study investigated the conceivable variances in physical work capacity amid the perimeter and post basketball players. In this regard, it has been further claimed that training-related phenotype variations in athletes primarily relies on exercise duration, frequency of intensity as well as other environmental conditions. Accordingly, it has been observed from the review of the study conducted by Gocentas & et. al. (2011) that coaches in the present context divide the players into post and perimeter groups grounded on the visual information. Evidently, the major anthropometric features of perimeter players are recognized to significantly vary in male basketball game. At the same time, VO2max and relative power is relatively high for perimeter players when equated with post players. Alternatively, Zadro, Sepulcri, Lazzer, Fregolent & Zamparo (2011) noted that to be efficient to deliver high performance in the game, players need to be highly agile and must be capable of running across the court in different directions together with continuous accelerations. In addition, with respect to decreasing lactate accretion among the basketball players, recurrent bouts of high-intensity workout are ascertained to be quite useful. Current and Relevant Biomechanical Research According to Siegmund, Huxel & Swank (2008), jumper’s knee (JK) also acknowledged as Patellar tendinitis is regarded as one of the common sorts of injuries acquired by the basketball players while playing the game. The authors briefly described the potential reasons behind acquiring this type of injuries. To illustrate, Siegmund & et. al. (2008) noted that eccentric tightening of the knee extensors generate forces on patellar tendon during landing and in the countermovement while preparing for jump. Consequently, the authors argued that the high loads released during these movements might play down the tendon’s tensile potency, resulting in causing microscopic tearing and injury. In fact, the biomechanics of the patella–patellar tendon in knee flexion and extension generates compressive forces in relation to proximal posterior, which eventually places the remaining tendon under amplified tensile load. Retrospectively, Siegmund & et. al. (2008) noted that such tensions cause failure of tissue, soaring cellular proliferation. In addition, it has been claimed that basketball players experiencing JK in most of the circumstances reveal changed mechanics for sustaining performance. Siegmund & et. al. (2008) as a measure to deal with this type of injuries, propounded that employing more hip flexion, while low hip speeding during standing jump preparation, can reduce loads on the knees and subsequently pain can also be minimized. The authors further affirmed that pressure on the patellar tendon can be reduced by ensuing longer-duration landing. Alemdaroğlu (2012) noted that there is no apparent relationship existing between the degree of power and single sprint performance. In this regard, one reasonable justification for the lack of affiliation amid the isokinetic knee strength and single-sprint performance is argued to be ineffective due to specific subject characteristics. Conversely, strong relationship amid anaerobic power and peak isokinetic can be ascertained. Current and Relevant Psychological Research According to Wilson, Vine & Wood (2009), influence of anxiety on performance has intrigued several sport psychologists. Threat is ascertained to be the major attribute of anxiety and is firmly related to the independent evaluation of a condition pertaining to one’s self-esteem. Wilson & et. al. (2009), based on the principles of processing efficiency theory, hypothesized that cognitive anxiety as a result of constant worry involves two main effects. Subsequently, the authors argued that its effect could be associated with reducing the processing as well as the storage capability of the working memory. Again, the authors claimed that worry related to a motivational role as well as ancillary processing resources or tactics. When anxious, the ability of the performers to process information has been observed to be decreased thereby contributing in poor performance. In the light of aforesaid challenges and issues, Wilson & et. al. (2009) propagated that attentional control theory (ACT) serves as a useful model to examine the visual attentional control relative to stressful environments. Likewise, Claudio, Sabina, Maria, Pascal, Adriana, Alessia, Claudio & Andrea & Angela (2012) examined the link between the different biological markers and unfriendly psychobiosocial (PBS) conditions with regards to precompetitive pressure in sport. Furthermore, Wilson & et. al. (2009) noted that rise in the salivary absorption of biological components was connected with greater intensity and frequency rates of pleasant PBS states and amplified directional values. Method Subject Information On December 02’ 2014, Wingate and VO2max tests were conducted at 09:15am and 10:25am respectively. In order to conduct these tests, a 23 years old basketball player was chosen. The height and the weight of the selected basketball player were estimated to be 196.5cm and 91.25kg respectively. The blood pressure of the player was recorded as systolic 130mmHg, diastolic 79mmHg and heart rate 45bpm. On the other hand, the room temperature stood as 20.3 C and the level of humidity was reckoned to be 42%. In addition, Barometric pressure was recorded to be 756.0 hPa. Equipment While performing the test, respiratory and pulmonary gas exchange variables were calculated by applying gas analyzer equipment (MedGraphics preVent pneumotach designed by Medical Graphics Corporation, St. Paul, MN, U.S.A.). Heart rate was measured using HR monitor (Polar Electro Oy, Professorintie 5, FIN-90440, Kempele). Height and weight details of the participant were recorded using stadiometer and weight scales (SECA Ltd. Vogel and Halke, Hamburg, Germany). In addition, to establish how hard exercise sustained throughout the test, Borg RPE scale (6-20) was used. Laboratory based tests were performed using Treadmill (Woodway GmbH, D-79576, Weil am Rheim) and cycle ergometer (Monarke Exercise AB, S-432 82, Varberg, Sweden) at the Allianz Park laboratory at Hendon. At the same time, field based test was performed using ump Mat (SmartMat2 Jump System with handheld unit), 3 cones and tape measure, Ipad mini 2 and Stereo at Leyton Sport Centre (East London). Protocol Different types of tests were performed on the selected athlete, which are listed below. • Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 • VO2max (Treadmill) • Wingate Test • Vertical Jump (SJ and CMJ) • Body composition • Biomechanical video of a jump shot While performing Wingate test, the athlete was communicated about the conduct of the test, which would last for maximum of 30 seconds and there should be no walking. Prior to the start of the test, a warm up session was organized. VO2max test was performed wherein the athlete was asked to accelerate speed within 1-2 minutes immediately after the warm up period. Vertical Jump CMJ (counter movement jump) and SJ (Squat Jump) were performed in which the athlete was asked to stand in socks or bare feet on the mat with evenly distributed weight over both feet and make 3 jumps along with free hand movement. During Yo-Yo intermittent estimated Vo2 max test, athlete was asked to run 2 x 20 m shuttles at the speed designated by the Yo-Yo protocol. Treatment of Data The results obtained from true VO2max would facilitate in determining the athlete’s status in relation to the moment related to elite basketball players wherein VO2max is ranged from 54-62 ml/min/kg for guards and small forwards, while it ranged from 48-54 ml/min/kg for centres and power forwards (Ben, Castagn, Jabri, Battikh, El Fazaa & El Ati, 2010). This understanding would facilitate in providing appropriate feedback to the athlete and would also help in framing ideal high intensity programs for the athlete as recommended by Helgerud, Høydal, Wang, Karlsen, Berg, Bjerkaas, Simonsen, Helgesen, Hjorth, Bach & Hoff (2007). In addition, performing Wingate test and Vertical Jumps (Squat Jump and Counter Movement Jump) to test the athlete’s power would be combined with 4 weeks high intensity and 4 weeks general strength training. Moreover, the conduct of 4 weeks plyometric exercise would provide substantial understanding regarding whether it is possible to enhance the athlete’s Vo2max, power and vertical jumps. Ethical Considerations The athlete was provided with a consent form and PAR-Q to seek his approval. The duly filed consent form by the athlete was then checked and signed by Middlesex University student. Test was administered by Middlesex University Sport Team Member. After all the forms were duly signed, the athlete was informed that he could terminate the test at any time or experience atypical pain. Raising the right hand up was mutually agreed as a signal to terminate the test. References Alemdaroğlu, U., 2012. The Relationship between Muscle Strength, Anaerobic Performance, Agility, Sprint Ability and Vertical Jump Performance in Professional Basketball Players. Journal of Human Kinetics, Vol. 31, pp. 149-158. Ben, A. N., Castagn, C., Jabri, I., Battikh T, El Fazaa, S. & El Ati, J., 2010. Activity Profile and Physiological Requirements of Junior Elite Basketball Players In Relation To Aerobic-Anaerobic Fitness. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Vol. 24, No. 9, pp. 2330-2342. Czuba, M., Zając, A., Maszczyk, A., Roczniok, R., Poprzęcki, S., Garbaciak, W. & Zając, T., 2013. The Effects of High Intensity Interval Training in Normobaric Hypoxia on Aerobic Capacity in Basketball Players. Journal of Human Kinetics, Vol. 39, pp. 103-114. Claudio, R., Sabina, G., Maria, A. D., Pascal, I., Adriana,B., Alessia, D. F., Claudio, M. & Andrea, C. & Angela, D. B., 2012. Relationship between Biological Markers and Psychological States in Elite Basketball Players across a Competitive Season. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, Vol. 13, pp. 509-517. Drinkwater, E. J., Hopkins, W. G., McKenna, M. J. Hunt, P. H. & Pyne, D. B., 2005. Characterizing Changes in Fitness of Basketball Players within and Between Seasons. Charles Sturt University, pp. 107-125. Drinkwater E. J., Pyne, D. B. & McKenna, M. J., 2008. Design and Interpretation of Anthropometric and Fitness Testing Of Basketball Players. Sports Med, Vol. 38, No.7, pp. 565–578. Gocentas, A., Jascaniniene, N., Poprzęcki, S., Jaszczanin, J. & Juozulynas, A., 2011. Position-Related Differences in Cardiorespiratory Functional Capacity of Elite Basketball Players. Journal of Human Kinetics, Vol. 30, pp. 145-152. Helgerud, J., Høydal, K., Wang, E., Karlsen, T., Berg, P., Bjerkaas, M., Simonsen, T., Helgesen, C., Hjorth, N., Bach, R. & Hoff, J., 2007. Aerobic high-intensity intervals improve VO2max more than moderate training. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Vol. 39, No. 4, pp. 665. Metaxas, T. I., Koutlianos, N. A., Kouidi, E. J. & Deligiannis, A. P., 2005. Comparative Study of Field and Laboratory Tests for the Evaluation of Aerobic Capacity in Soccer Players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Vol. 19, No.1, pp. 79–84. Ostojic, S. M., Mazic, S. & Dikic. N., 2006. Profiling In Basketball: Physical and Physiological Characteristics of Elite Players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Vol. 20, No.4, pp. 740–744. Scanlan, A. T., Dascombe, B. J., Reaburn, P. & Dalbo, V.J. 2012. The Physiological and Activity Demands Experienced by Australian Female Basketball Players During Competition. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, Vol. 15, pp. 341–347. Schelling, X. & Torres-Ronda, L., 2013. Conditioning for Basketball: Quality and Quantity of Training. Strength and Conditioning Journal, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp. 89-93. Siegmund, J. A., Huxel, K. C. & Swanik, C. B., 2008. Compensatory Mechanisms in Basketball Players with Jumper’s Knee. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, Vol.17, pp. 358-371. Wilson, M. R., Vine, S. J. & Wood, G., 2009. The Influence of Anxiety on Visual Attentional Control in Basketball Free Throw Shooting. Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, Vol. 31, pp. 152-168. Zadro, I., Sepulcri, L., Lazzer, S., Fregolent, R., & Zamparo, P., 2011. A Protocol of Intermittent Exercise (Shuttle Runs) To Train Young Basketball Players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp.1767–1773. Bibliography González-Bono, E., Moya-Albiol, L., Martínez-Sanchis, S., & Salvador, A., 2002. Salivary Testosterone and Cortisol Responses to Cycle Ergometry in Basketball Players with Different Training Volume. 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High-Intensity Interval Training and Β-Hydroxy- Β Methylbutyric Free Acid Improves Aerobic Power and Metabolic Thresholds. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Vol.11, No.16, pp. 1-11. Read More