The Effect of Speed Training on Short-Distance Running Performance in Athletes with Down Syndrome

Title: The Effect of Speed Training on Short-Distance Running Performance in Athletes with Down Syndrome Objective: The aim of this thesis is to investigate whether and how a specific training program focused on maximum speed can influence speed and strength performance in this specific group of athletes. Part of the objective is also to evaluate the training program with regard to the individual needs of the athletes. Methods: The research was conducted as a quantitative intervention study using a pretest-posttest design without a control group. A total of 9 athletes with Down syndrome participated in a three-month training intervention focused on maximum speed. To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention, tests included flying sprint runs, vertical jump, and measurements of muscle strength of knee flexors and extensors. Results: After completing the training intervention, a statistically significant improvement was observed in jump height. No statistically significant changes were found in the other observed parameters, namely speed and muscle isokinetic strength performance. Conclusions: The results suggest that specialized speed training may positively influence the explosive strength of the lower limbs in individuals with Down syndrome; however, it did not show a significant effect on...