The Effectiveness Of Tabata-Style Training Exercises In Improving Cardiorespiratory Fitness And Certain Physical Abilities Of Tennis Players Under 16 Years Of Age

Abstract

This research aimed to identify  effect of Tabata exercises on developing cardiorespiratory fitness and some physical abilities of tennis players under 16 years of age.  experimental method, using a pre-test/post-test with equivalent groups, was employed as it was suitable for  research problem.  research population consisted of ten (10) tennis players under 16 years of age at Al-Durra Sports Club during  2025 season.  research sample was selected using a census method, meaning  sample represented  entire research population.  sample was divided into two groups (control and experimental), with five players in each group.  the researcher developed  Tabata exercises, which were performed during  special preparation period in  main part of  training session, specifically at  beginning of  main session.  training cycle for  first two weeks consisted of 15 seconds of work followed by 15 seconds of rest after 8 repetitions, with a one-minute rest period between sets.  training load for  remaining weeks consisted of 20 seconds of work followed by 10 seconds of rest, with 5 repetitions and a one-minute rest period between sets.  intensity used ranged from 85% to 90% of  maximum training value, employing high-intensity interval training (HIIT). One of  key findings was that Tabata exercises had a positive effect on improving cardiorespiratory fitness in  research participants because they targeted  working muscles of tennis players.