ABSTRACT

Background: Table tennis is a high-intensity, skill-dominant racket sport that demands rapid neuromuscular responses, dynamic postural control, and substantial hand grip strength for effective stroke execution and injury prevention. Recreational players frequently lack structured conditioning programs targeting these physical determinants. Functional resistance modalities such as kettlebell and battle rope training have demonstrated multi-planar neuromuscular benefits; however, comparative evidence regarding their effectiveness in racket sports populations remains limited. Methodology: A randomized comparative experimental study was conducted involving 44 recreational table tennis players (19–45 years). Participants were allocated into two groups: kettlebell training (n = 22) and battle rope training (n = 22). Both groups underwent structured training protocols for eight weeks. Outcome measures included hand grip strength (assessed via handheld dynamometer) and dynamic postural control (assessed using the Y Balance Test in anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions).Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in dominant and non-dominant hand grip strength and dynamic balance parameters following the intervention (p < 0.001). Between-group analysis revealed significantly greater improvements in dominant hand grip strength (p = 0.04) and dynamic balance measures in the battle rope group compared to the kettlebell group. Conclusion: Both kettlebell and battle rope training significantly enhance grip strength and postural control in recreational table tennis players. However, battle rope training appears comparatively more effective in improving dominant hand grip strength and dynamic balance performance. Keywords: Table tennis, Kettlebell training, Battle rope training, Grip strength, Dynamic balance, Functional resistance training, Neuromuscular performance
Publication date: 2026/10/01

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/October/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10562.pdf

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doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.10.10562