Design of a hydrotherapy device to accelerate recovery from muscle fatigue after physical exercise

Abstract

This study aimed to create a hydrotherapy device to accelerate recovery after physical exercise. To achieve this goal, the researchersemployed a Research and Development (R&D) approach. The study involved two experts with competence in media and material fields. In the initial stage, validation tests were conducted to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the designed device. The experts evaluated the device based on product feasibility, clarity of language, and device design. Following the validation tests, the product's feasibility was further assessed through two stages of trials: small-scale and large-scale. A total of 16 male students aged 21–25 participated in the small-scale trial, while 36 male students in the same age range took part in the large-scale trial. These participants were selected using purposive sampling. The results indicated that expert validity averaged 87%, categorizing it as very feasible. The validity for the small-scale trial was 80%, and for the large-scale trial, it was 84%, both considered very good. In summary, the hydrotherapy device is feasible for accelerating recovery after physical exercise and has the potential to enhance athletic performance. We recommend conducting further investigations to fully evaluate the device’s effectiveness in speeding up recovery