Abstract: Badminton is a high-intensity racket sport requiring explosive power, rapid directional changes, agility, and neuromuscular coordination. Smash speed and efficient court movement are decisive performance factors that depend largely on lower-body strength and plyometric ability. The present study aimed to examine the effect of combined strength and plyometric training on smash speed and court movement among competitive badminton players. Thirty district-level players aged 16–22 years from Sikar and Churu were selected and randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent an eight-week structured strength and plyometric training program alongside regular badminton practice, while the control group continued only routine training. Smash speed was measured using video motion analysis, and court movement ability was assessed through a standardized badminton agility test. Statistical analysis revealed significant improvement in both variables among the experimental group compared to the control group. The findings indicate that integrated strength and plyometric training enhances explosive performance and on-court movement efficiency in badminton players.

Keywords: Strength training, Plyometric training, Smash speed, Court movement, Badminton performance, Agility, Explosive power.