Final answer:
The lateral speed skater power-training exercise primarily aims to boost lower body strength and power, as well as improve agility due to the quick lateral movements involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goal of the lateral speed skater power-training exercise is to boost strength and power, particularly in the lower body. This type of training falls under the category of anaerobic exercises, which are designed to increase muscle strength through activities like weight training or sprinting. Unlike aerobic exercises that enhance endurance and cardiovascular health, anaerobic exercises provide the muscles with short bursts of intense activity that lead to increased power.
During this exercise, athletes mimic the side-to-side movement of a speed skater, which helps in building explosive power in their legs and hips, and can contribute to improved performance in sports that require lateral movement and strength. This movement also improves agility as it involves a quick change of direction, but its primary goal is to build strength.