French Contrast Training in Male Collegiate Basketball Players

Effects of 12 Weeks of French Contrast Training on Lower-Limb Explosive Performance in Male Collegiate Basketball Players

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of 12 weeks of French Contrast Training (FCT) compared with traditional resistance training (RT) on lower-limb explosive performance in male collegiate basketball players. Forty participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the FCT group or the RT group. Both groups trained twice per week for 12 weeks, with at least 48 hours between sessions. Lower-limb performance was assessed before and after the intervention using countermovement jump height, drop jump height, ground contact time, reactive strength index, 10-m sprint time, and isometric mid-thigh pull peak force. The study aimed to determine whether FCT produces greater improvements in jumping performance, reactive strength, short-distance acceleration, and maximal force than traditional resistance training.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Male collegiate basketball players aged 18-24 years.
2. At least 7 years of systematic basketball training experience.
3. At least 2 years of resistance training experience.
4. Competitive classification of Chinese National Second-Class Athlete or higher in basketball.
5. Regular participation in basketball-specific technical training three times per week under the same training program.
6. Physically healthy and able to participate in resistance and jumping training.
7. Willing to participate in the study and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Lower-limb injury within the 3 months prior to enrollment.
2. Severe musculoskeletal or joint disorders that could interfere with resistance or jumping exercise.
3. Cardiovascular disease or other medical conditions that could prevent safe participation in high-intensity resistance or plyometric exercise.
4. Previous experience with structured French Contrast Training.
5. Unable to safely complete the prescribed training or performance testing procedures.