Speed is a crucial performance parameter in traditional Indian games like Kho Kho and Kabaddi. Circuit training has emerged as an effective method to enhance athletic performance across various sports disciplines. This study aimed to investigate the effects of circuit training on speed performance among Kho Kho players, Kabaddi players, and a control group of intercollegiate athletes. Ninety male participants (n=90) aged 18-25 years were randomly assigned to three groups: Control group (n=30), Kho Kho group (n=30), and Kabaddi group (n=30). The experimental groups underwent an 8-week circuit training program while the control group maintained their regular training routine. Speed was measured using a 50-meter sprint test before and after the intervention period. Both experimental groups showed significant improvements in speed performance compared to the control group. The Kho Kho group demonstrated the greatest improvement with a mean difference of 0.66 seconds (p<0.01), followed by the Kabaddi group with a mean difference of 0.60 seconds (p<0.01). The control group showed no significant change (p>0.05). Circuit training effectively improves speed performance in both Kho Kho and Kabaddi players, with Kho Kho players showing slightly superior adaptation to the training protocol.

Circuit training, speed, Kho Kho, Kabaddi, athletic performance, traditional Indian games

This study demonstrates that circuit training is an effective intervention for improving speed performance in both Kho Kho and Kabaddi players. The 8-week circuit training program resulted in significant improvements in speed performance for both experimental groups, with the Kho Kho group showing slightly superior adaptations. The lack of improvement in the control group confirms that the observed changes were attributable to the circuit training intervention rather than normal training adaptations. The findings support the integration of circuit training methodologies into the training programs of traditional Indian game athletes seeking to improve speed performance. Coaches and athletes can confidently implement circuit training protocols as an effective means of enhancing this crucial performance parameter. The practical significance of these improvements, combined with the time-efficient nature of circuit training, makes it an attractive training option for athletes and coaches in resource-constrained environments. Future research should continue to explore optimal training parameters and investigate the effects of circuit training on other performance variables relevant to traditional Indian games.

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