Meta-analysis of the effects of core stability training on handball throwing performance

Objective

To determine the effects of core stability training on throwing performance in handball.

Methodology

A systematic search for trials up to August 2024 was performed in PubMed, Bireme, Scopus and WOS, following the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook and PRISMA statements. Two reviewers independently selected studies, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROB2 scale. In addition, study quality was assessed using the clinical trial checklist provided by SIGN. Data were analyzed in RevMan-Web using fixed-effects meta-analysis, assessing heterogeneity with $I^2$, ${\chi }^2$ tests and Galbraith plots. Finally, the certainty of evidence was determined employing the GRADE approach.

Results

From 2,343 identified records, 7 studies involving 175 handball players (14–24 years) were selected. Core stability training increased 3.49 kilometer/hour throwing speed from a static position (95 % CI = 1.04 to 5.94), 1.11 kilometer/hour after a run (95 % CI = 0.19 to 2.03) and 1.32 kilometer/hour after a jump (95 % CI = 0.54 to 2.10). The certainty of evidence for these three outcomes was considered low.

Conclusion

Sports scientists (sports doctors, physical therapists, physical trainers, among others) working with handball players might consider the implementation of CST as a valuable tool to help players improve throwing speed.

Registry number

CRD42024579528