Basketball specific agility: A narrative review of execution plans and implementation effects.

This systematic review and evaluation aim to comprehensively overview current international advanced basketball specialized agility training methods. The primary objective is to analyze and synthesize existing literature, offering insights and guidance to enhance agility training levels specifically tailored for basketball players. Methods involved a systematic literature search using keywords like "Basketball," "Agility," and "Training" in major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO), covering studies from 2010 to 2022. Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing advanced agility training methods for basketball players. Data extraction and analysis were conducted to identify key trends and outcomes. A total of 563 articles were initially identified, and after reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts, 20 articles were ultimately selected, excluding those with inconsistent outcome measures or unavailable full texts. The findings suggest that plyometric training, comprehensive speed training, and equipment-assisted training methods (SSG, TRX, Bulgarian ball, etc) have demonstrated effectiveness in improving agility indicators in basketball players.

The effect of high-intensity plyometric training on anaerobic performance parameters: a pilot study in U17 elite A league.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of high-intensity plyometric training (HIPT) on some parameters in elite soccer players in the U17. Volunteer soccer players were randomly divided into two groups according to their positions: the regular training (RT) group (age: 16.71 ± 0.47 years; stature: 163.46 ± 3.31 cm; body weight: 61.04 ± 1.59 kg) and the HIPT group (age: 16.64 ± 0.50 years; stature: 165.60 ± 3.03 cm; body weight: 59.76 ± 1.92 kg), and each group included five defenders, five midfielders, and four attackers. While the RT group did only routine soccer training, the HIPT group performed high-intensity plyometric training three days a week in addition to routine soccer training. In the study, body weight, stature, sprint (10 m, 30 m, and 40 m), jump (standing long jump, right and left-limb triple hop) and 5-0-5 change of direction speed test measurements of the soccer players were taken. Skewness and Kurtosis values obtained from the pre-test and post-test measurements were calculated to test whether the normality assumption of the study was met. A mixed measure two-way ANOVA test was used to determine the difference between the pre-test and post-test. The significance was set as p < 0.05. The results indicated that 8-week high- intensity plyometric training provided more improvement in measured performance parameters than routine soccer training. As a result, when the data obtained is examined, it can be said that HIPT had better values in sprint, jump, and change of direction parameters, so plyometric training was more beneficial for anaerobic parameters than routine soccer training in children. It is recommended that the trainers make their plans considering these results.

High-Intensity Forward-Backward Plyometrics After the Warm-Up Entail Better Sprint and Change-of-Direction Performance Than Low-Intensity Side-to-Side Plyometrics.

This study aimed to determine the acute effects of high-intensity forward-backward and low-intensity side-to-side plyometric jumps performed following the warm-up on sprint (5, 10, and 15 m) and change-of-direction (COD) (T-half test and repeated T-half tests) performance in youth volleyball players. After a familiarization week, 30 male volleyball players (age = 12.04 ± 1.03 years) performed three randomized conditions (no-plyometrics, high-intensity plyometrics, and low-intensity plyometrics) in three sessions. In a within-subject design, three sets of six repetitions of forward-backward 30-cm hurdle jumps (high-intensity) and side-to-side 20-cm hurdle jumps (low-intensity) were completed. Sprint and COD were tested after each of the conditions with a 2-min rest. A significant effect of the plyometric condition was observed on sprint (p < .001, ηp2 range: .56-.70) and COD (p < .01, ηp2=.24), but not on repeated COD. More specifically, the high-intensity plyometric condition exhibited significantly better results compared with the low-intensity plyometric (Cohen's d range: 0.73-1.21) and control conditions (Cohen's d range: 0.91-2.21). Due to the importance of speed and COD in volleyball, these results suggest that young volleyball players may benefit from high-intensity forward-backward plyometric protocols following the warm-up to improve subsequent performance.

Effects of plyometric training on measures of physical fitness in racket sport athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Over the past decade, the popularity of racket sports has surged. Plyometric training (PT) has been the focus of extensive research because of the proven benefits it provides to athletes. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews and meta-analyses specifically evaluating the impact of PT on physical fitness metrics in racket sport athletes. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive review and analysis of evidence derived from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effects of PT on measures of physical fitness among racket sports athletes. Methods: The electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and SPORTDiscus were systematically searched up to June 2023 without placing any restrictions on the publication dates. The PICOS method was adopted to establish the inclusion criteria: (a) healthy athletes who participate in racket sports; (b) a PT program; (c) a control group; (d) assessment of physical fitness components pre- and post-PT; and (e) RCTs. The records' methodological quality was assessed utilizing the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The certainty in the evidence related to each outcome was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment. A random-effects model was used to calculate effect sizes (ES; Hedges' g) between experimental and control groups. Results: There were 14 eligible studies of moderate-to-high-quality, involving 746 athletes in total. The results revealed small-to-moderate effects (p < 0.05) of PT on muscle power (ES = 0.46), muscle strength (ES = 0.50), sprint speed (ES = 0.45), change of direction ability (ES = 0.76), and reaction time (ES = 0.67), while no clear evidence was found on balance and flexibility. The training-induced changes in muscle power showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) between youth (ES = 0.72) and adults (ES = 0.40). There were also similar muscle power improvements (ES = 0.36-0.54 vs 0.38-0.56, all p > 0.05) for a length of ≤7 weeks with ≤14 total PT sessions vs >7 weeks with >14 total PT sessions, and ≤2 weekly sessions vs >2 sessions. No adverse effects were reported in the included studies regarding the PT intervention. The certainty of evidence varied from very low to moderate. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that PT has positive effects on important indices of physical fitness among athletes participating in racket sports. Future studies are required to clarify the optimal doses and examine interactions among training variables to further promote the physical fitness of this specific population.

The Effects of Workload Difference Between Limbs in Plyometric and Strength Exercises in Reducing Asymmetry in Change of Direction Ability During Basketball Season.

ABSTRACT: Ujakovic, F, and Sarabon, N. The effects of workload difference between limbs in plyometric and strength exercises in reducing asymmetry in change of direction ability during basketball season. J Strength Cond Res 37(11): 2282-2288, 2023-The topic of interlimb asymmetries has recently been extensively investigated; despite that, intervention for purpose of reducing them have been narrowly examined. The present study investigated the effects of maximal strength and plyometric resistance training program with 3:1 workload ratio (nondominant to dominant side) on change of direction deficit (CoDdef) asymmetry during the basketball season. Thirty-six highly trained male basketball players (19.3 ± 4.9 years) from different age categories (U-17, U-19, and senior) were divided into 2 groups: the control group ( n = 18) and the intervention group ( n = 18). The intervention group performed once-a-week training that consisted of strength (Bulgarian split squats) and jumping (single-leg countermovement jumps [SLCMJs]) part in which nondominant-to-dominant workload ratio was 3:1 during the 8-week period. Preintervention and postintervention testing included single-leg isometric squat, SLCMJ, 10-m sprint, and 505 test. Analysis of covariance results showed a statistically significant difference with large effect size ( p < 0.05; η2 = 0.26) when preintervention asymmetry was included as covariate. Post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant decrease in mean CoDdef asymmetry between preintervention (11.88%) and postintervention (4.47%) testing ( p < 0.01, effect size [ES] = -1.37). Isometric squat strength increased on nondominant side in the intervention group ( p < 0.05; ES = 0.77). No other performance or asymmetry variable showed significant change. In conclusion, a 3:1 workload of nonspecific movement task in favor of nondominant limb is an effective training strategy to reduce CoDdef asymmetry during basketball season.

Acute Effects of Different Conditioning Activities on Amateur Soccer Players.

Several warm-up activities are used to prepare soccer players for training and games. However, few studies have focused on comparing different activities (strength vs. stretching) in young and amateur athletes, especially for performance improvement in explosive actions. Thus, in order to compare the effect of four conditioning activities on jump and sprint performances, 12 soccer athletes (age: 19±0.8; weight (kg): 72.8±8.0; height (cm): 180±6.7) performed four warm-up activities: strength exercise (cluster system), combined exercise, plyometric exercise, and static stretching (control). The countermovement jump (CMJ) and 30-meter run (30-m Sprint) were performed 10 min after each experimental condition. A ONE-WAY ANOVA test of repeated measures was conducted with a Tukey's post-hoc test to compare the conditions. The strength conditioning activity protocol (33.68±2.87) showed a significant difference for the CMJ from static stretching (30.96±3.16) (p>0.05). There were significant differences regarding the 30-m Sprint test between strength conditioning (4.72±0.19) and combined activities (4.71±0.21) compared to static stretching (4.84±0.21) (p>0.05). In conclusion, the combined conditioning activity and strength protocols can be chosen in warm-up activities instead of static stretching (control condition) for improved immediate sprint and jump abilities in amateur soccer players.

Effects of combined plyometric, strength and running technique training program on change-of-direction and countermovement jump: A two-armed parallel study design on young soccer players.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Players must be capable to have a good change-of-direction (COD) skill aiming to be the fastest as possible to react immediately to the opponent or even to help players to be more agile since COD is a physical determinant of agility. Thus, the aim of this study was to test the effects of a six-week combined training intervention in the COD and countermovement jump (CMJ) of young soccer players, while comparing with a control group only performing the regular field-based training sessions. METHODS: A sample of 80 non-professional players (40 experimental group and 40 control group) between the ages of ten and twelve was taken [(Age: 10.70 ± 1.02)]. The tests that were carried out from the beginning to the end of the intervention were: CMJ test, 505COD Test and Illinois Test. Paired sample t-test was used for determining differences as a repeated measures analysis (pre- post). An ANCOVA test was performed using the pretest as a covariate and the times pre and post as factors. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Repeated measures ANCOVA revealed significant influence of baseline level on the 5-0-5 COD (p = 0.001; ηp2=0.170), the Illinois (p = 0.018; ηp2=0.070) and the CMJ (p = 0.047; ηp2=0.050). Significant interactions group*time (p < 0.001; ηp2=0.137), 5-0-5 COD (p < 0.001; ηp2=0.274), and CMJ (p < 0.001; ηp2=0.392) were found, while no significant interactions were found in Illinois (p = 0.293; ηp2=0.014). The current research revealed that a combined training intervention consisting of strength training, plyometrics, and running techniques can be significantly beneficial for improving COD performance and CMJ.

Effects of plyometric training on technical skill performance among athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The literature has proven that plyometric training (PT) improves various physical performance outcomes in sports. Even though PT is one of the most often employed strength training methods, a thorough analysis of PT and how it affects technical skill performance in sports needs to be improved. METHODS: This study aimed to compile and synthesize the existing studies on the effects of PT on healthy athletes' technical skill performance. A comprehensive search of SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and SPORTDiscus databases was performed on 3rd May 2023. PICOS was employed to establish the inclusion criteria: 1) healthy athletes; 2) a PT program; 3) compared a plyometric intervention to an active control group; 4) tested at least one measure of athletes' technical skill performance; and 5) randomized control designs. The methodological quality of each individual study was evaluated using the PEDro scale. The random-effects model was used to compute the meta-analyses. Subgroup analyses were performed (participant age, gender, PT length, session duration, frequency, and number of sessions). Certainty or confidence in the body of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). RESULTS: Thirty-two moderate-high-quality studies involving 1078 athletes aged 10-40 years met the inclusion criteria. The PT intervention lasted for 4 to 16 weeks, with one to three exercise sessions per week. Small-to-moderate effect sizes were found for performance of throwing velocity (i.e., handball, baseball, water polo) (ES = 0.78; p < 0.001), kicking velocity and distance (i.e., soccer) (ES = 0.37-0.44; all p < 0.005), and speed dribbling (i.e., handball, basketball, soccer) (ES = 0.85; p = 0.014), while no significant effects on stride rate (i.e., running) were noted (ES = 0.32; p = 0.137). Sub-analyses of moderator factors included 16 data sets. Only training length significantly modulated PT effects on throwing velocity (> 7 weeks, ES = 1.05; ≤ 7 weeks, ES = 0.29; p = 0.011). The level of certainty of the evidence for the meta-analyzed outcomes ranged from low to moderate. CONCLUSION: Our findings have shown that PT can be effective in enhancing technical skills measures in youth and adult athletes. Sub-group analyses suggest that PT longer (> 7 weeks) lengths appear to be more effective for improving throwing velocity. However, to fully determine the effectiveness of PT in improving sport-specific technical skill outcomes and ultimately enhancing competition performance, further high-quality research covering a wider range of sports is required.

Neuromuscular and balance adaptations following basketball-specific training programs based on combined drop jump and multidirectional repeated sprint versus multidirectional plyometric training.

Multidirectional jumping and repeated sprint ability are crucial performance factors in basketball. The main aim of this investigation was to examine the neuromuscular performance and body balance adaptations following basketball-specific combined training programs based on drop jump and multidirectional repeated sprint versus multidirectional plyometric training. Forty-two professional basketball male players participated in the current investigation and were randomly assigned to three groups: a combined group (COMB; n = 14), a multidirectional jump group (MJG; n = 14) and an active control group (CON; n = 14). The COMB and the MJG groups completed the 8-week training programs with two weekly sessions while the CON continued their usual training. The static and dynamic balance tests, the repeated sprint ability test (IRSA5COD), the T-change of direction (CoD) test, the vertical jump tests, the five time-jump test (FJT) were performed by participants before and after the intervention period. The results showed a significant main effect of time with remarkable improvements at the end of the intervention (P < 0.001, effect size small/moderate) except the physiological parameters for IRSA5COD. Only, significant group × time interactions for body balance, T-CoD test, IRSA5COD (total time and best time), and jump tests were found (P < 0.001, effect size from trivial to moderate). Bonferroni corrected post-hoc tests revealed significantly greater improvement in favor of COMB compared to MJG for body balance, CoD and IRSA5COD (P < 0.005, effect size small/moderate). Otherwise, no significant differences between COMB and MJG concerning jump performances were found. Combined drop jump and multidirectional repeated sprint training program lead to significantly better neuromuscular performance, body balance and CoD in professional basketball players when compared with an usual training.

Effects of Plyometric Jump Training on the Reactive Strength Index in Healthy Individuals Across the Lifespan: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The reactive strength index (RSI) is meaningfully associated with independent markers of athletic (e.g., linear sprint speed) and neuromuscular performance [e.g., stretch-shortening cycle (SSC)]. Plyometric jump training (PJT) is particularly suitable to improve the RSI due to exercises performed in the SSC. However, no literature review has attempted to meta-analyse the large number of studies regarding the potential effects of PJT on the RSI in healthy individuals across the lifespan. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to examine the effects of PJT on the RSI of healthy individuals across the lifespan compared with active/specific-active controls. METHODS: Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched up to May 2022. According to the PICOS approach, the eligibility criteria were: (1) healthy participants, (2) PJT interventions of ≥ 3 weeks, (3) active (e.g., athletes involved in standard training) and specific-active (e.g., individuals using heavy resistance training) control group(s), (4) a measure of jump-based RSI pre-post training, and (5) controlled studies with multi-groups in randomised and non-randomised designs. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the risk of bias. The random-effects model was used to compute the meta-analyses, reporting Hedges' g effect sizes (ES) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Subgroup analyses were performed (chronological age; PJT duration, frequency, number of sessions, total number of jumps; randomization). A meta-regression was conducted to verify if PJT frequency, duration, and total number of sessions predicted the effects of PJT on the RSI. Certainty or confidence in the body of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Potential adverse health effects derived from PJT were researched and reported. RESULTS: Sixty-one articles were meta-analysed, with a median PEDro score of 6.0, a low risk of bias and good methodological quality, comprising 2576 participants with an age range of 8.1-73.1 years (males, ~ 78%; aged under 18 years, ~ 60%); 42 studies included participants with a sport background (e.g., soccer, runners). The PJT duration ranged from 4 to 96 weeks, with one to three weekly exercise sessions. The RSI testing protocols involved the use of contact mats (n = 42) and force platforms (n = 19). Most studies reported RSI as mm/ms (n = 25 studies) from drop jump analysis (n = 47 studies). In general, PJT groups improved RSI compared to controls: ES = 0.54, 95% CI 0.46-0.62, p < 0.001. Training-induced RSI changes were greater (p = 0.023) for adults [i.e., age ≥ 18 years (group mean)] compared with youth. PJT was more effective with a duration of > 7 weeks versus ≤ 7 weeks, > 14 total PJT sessions versus ≤ 14 sessions, and three weekly sessions versus < three sessions (p = 0.027-0.060). Similar RSI improvements were noted after ≤ 1080 versus > 1080 total jumps, and for non-randomised versus randomised studies. Heterogeneity (I2) was low (0.0-22.2%) in nine analyses and moderate in three analyses (29.1-58.1%). According to the meta-regression, none of the analysed training variables explained the effects of PJT on RSI (p = 0.714-0.984, R2 = 0.0). The certainty of the evidence was moderate for the main analysis, and low-to-moderate across the moderator analyses. Most studies did not report soreness, pain, injury or related adverse effects related to PJT. CONCLUSIONS: The effects of PJT on the RSI were greater compared with active/specific-active controls, including traditional sport-specific training as well as alternative training interventions (e.g., high-load slow-speed resistance training). This conclusion is derived from 61 articles with low risk of bias (good methodological quality), low heterogeneity, and moderate certainty of evidence, comprising 2576 participants. PJT-related improvements on RSI were greater for adults versus youths, after > 7 training weeks versus ≤ 7 weeks, with > 14 total PJT versus ≤ 14 sessions, and with three versus < three weekly sessions.

Effects of Plyometric Training Direction on Physical Performance in Basketball Players.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of plyometric training direction on jumping, sprinting, and change-of-direction ability in basketball players. METHODS: Forty male basketball players (21.8 [3.8] y), from 4 teams that competed in regional and national championships, were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (1) vertical jump group, (2) horizontal jump group, (3) vertical and horizontal jump group, and (4) control group. The subjects followed a plyometric training program twice a week for 6 weeks, differing in the execution direction of the jumps. All groups performed the same total training volume of acyclic and cyclic jumps controlled through the number of contacts per session. Pretraining and posttraining measurements included (1) rocket jump, (2) Abalakov jump, (3) horizontal jump, (4) 20-m linear sprint, and (5) V-Cut change-of-direction test. RESULTS: The vertical and horizontal jump group showed significant increases in all performance variables examined, except for linear sprint performance, in which no group improved. The vertical jump group showed significant improvements in rocket jump and Abalakov jump (P < .01), but worsened significantly in terms of sprint performance (P < .05). The horizontal jump group showed significant increases in rocket jump and horizontal jump (P < .001-.01). Furthermore, all experimental groups showed improved V-Cut change-of-direction test performance. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that combining vertical and horizontal jumps induces improvements in more capabilities than does training only vertical or horizontal jumps with the same training volume. Training only vertical or horizontal jumps will improve performance mainly in vertically or horizontally oriented tasks, respectively.

Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Plyometric Training on Lower Limb Explosive Strength in Adolescent Athletes.

BACKGROUND: Plyometric training is an effective training method to improve explosive strength. However, the ability to perform plyometric training in the adolescent population is still controversial, with insufficient meta-analyses about plyometric training on lower limb explosive strength in adolescent athletes. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of plyometric training on the explosive strength of lower limbs in adolescent athletes. METHODS: We performed a search of six databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest databases, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wan-fang database) from the starting year of inclusion in each database to April 4, 2022. The quality of the included literature was assessed using the Cochrane risk assessment tool, and data were analyzed using the Review Manager 5.4 software. RESULT: Plyometric training had significant effects on the performance of adolescent athletes in countermovement jump (MD = 2.74, 95% CI: 1.62, 3.85, p < 0.01), squat jump (MD = 4.37, 95% CI: 2.85, 5.90, p < 0.01), standing long jump (MD = 6.50, 95% CI: 4.62, 8.38, p < 0.01), 10-m sprint (MD = -0.04, 95% CI: -0.08, -0.00, p = 0.03), and 20-m sprint (MD = -0.12, 95% CI: -0.20, -0.04, p = 0.03); all had positive and statistically significant effects (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Plyometric training can significantly enhance the explosive strength of lower limbs in adolescent athletes.

Age-related differences in kinetics during double- and single-leg jumps in boys.

BACKGROUND: Plyometric training, such as single-leg jumps, may be one of the most effective ways to improve a child's jumping and sprinting ability. However, few studies on age-related changes in single-legged jumping ability seem to exist. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine age-related changes in double- and single-leg jump performance. METHODS: A total of 143 untrained boys aged 7-15 years performed double-leg counter-movement jump (CMJ) and rebound jump (RJ) and single-leg CMJ (SCMJ) and RJ (SRJ). Jump height (JH), peak vertical ground reaction force (PvGRF), and relative vertical ground reaction force (RvGRF) during CMJ and SCMJ, and RJ-Index, JH, ground contact time (CT), PvGRF, and RvGRF during RJ and SRJ were recorded, and one-way analysis of variance was used to examine differences between age group. RESULTS: JH, PvGRF, and RvGRF of CMJ and SCMJ increased with age with a similar trend (P<0.001). RJ-Index, JH, and PvGRF of RJ and SRJ also increased with age (P<0.001). CT of RJ did not change with age, but SRJ became longer with age (P<0.001). The RvGRF of RJ increased with age (P<0.001), but the RvGRF of SRJ did not change. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that age-related changes in CMJ among boys aged 7-15 years have similar trends for double- and single-leg jumps. However, age-related changes of RJ differed between double- and single-leg jumps, suggesting that differences in adaptation of relative force exertion may occur.

The Effects of an Eight-Week Integrated Functional Core and Plyometric Training Program on Young Rhythmic Gymnasts' Explosive Strength.

Background: Explosive strength is essential for rhythmic gymnasts' performance. It has been suggested that core stability (CS) and plyometric training can enhance athletes' explosive strength. Nevertheless, there is some uncertainty about the effects of integrated core and plyometric training (CPT) programs on rhythmic gymnastics (RG) performances. Purpose: to evaluate the effects of an integrated functional CPT program on young rhythmic gymnasts' explosive strength and jump/leap performance. Method: We recruited 44 young (age = 10.5 ± 1.8 years old; peak height velocity, PHV = 12.2 ± 0.6 years old) female rhythmic gymnasts and randomly allocated them into a control group (CG) and an experimental group (EG). Pre and post-intervention, the explosive strength of both groups was assessed using countermovement jump (CMJ) and single-leg CMJ (SLCMJ) tests, conducted using a force platform, and expert RG judges evaluated their performance of RG-specific jumps. Before the post-test, the EG (n = 23) completed an 8 week functional CPT program based on RG technical requirements. Meanwhile, the participants in the CG (n = 21) received their regular training sessions. Linear mixed model analyses were applied to evaluate the effects of an intra-subject factor (TIME: pre-post) and an inter-subject factor (GROUP: control-experimental) on each dependent variable. When no significant interaction effect was found, Cohen's d effect size was calculated. Results: After 8 weeks, the EG obtained significantly better results in all variables measured by the CMJ and SLCMJ (p < 0.01) tests. The judges' scores indicated greater improvements in the EG after the CPT program in the stag and the split leap. Conclusions: An integrated functional CPT program improved explosive strength in a group of young rhythmic gymnasts and had a large impact on aspects of RG-specific performance. Coaches should consider using this CPT to improve RG performance.

Effects of Different Acute Plyometric Training Intensities on Attention and Psychological States.

The objective of this investigation was to explore in a sample of female students the effects of several acute plyometric training intensities (low, moderate, and high-55-65%, 70-80%, and 90-100% of maximal vertical jump performance, respectively) on cognition (attention) and psychological states (mood). Thirty-seven female students (mean age = 19.72 ± 0.73 years, mean body mass index = 19.51) participated in the current study. They were randomly allocated to one of three conditions: a high-intensity plyometric exercise (HIPE), a moderate-intensity plyometric exercise (MIPE), and a low-intensity plyometric exercise (LIPE). Before and immediately after each session for the three conditions, all participants underwent a cognitive performance test (d2 test) and filled in a battery of psychological questionnaires (the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), and the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS)). The data reported higher concentration performance and a lower number of errors in the MIPE when compared with HIPE (all, p-value < 0.05) groups, whereas no significant difference was found between other conditions (p-value > 0.05). The RPE value was higher in the HIPE (p-value < 0.001) and MIPE (p = 0.01) than in the LIPE, and in the HIPE than in the MIPE (p = 0.001) conditions. Concerning the BRUMS scale, fatigue (p = 0.005) was significantly different among the various conditions, being higher in HIPE with respect to MIPE and LIPE (all, p-value < 0.05) conditions. In conclusion, moderate-intensity plyometric exercise can be considered the best activity to improve visual attention. Practitioners may practice moderate-intensity plyometric exercises to improve concentration performance. However, due to the limitations of the present study (lack of a control group and between-subjects study design), further research in the field is warranted.

Does 8 Weeks of Integrated Functional Core and Plyometric Training Improve Postural Control Performance in Young Rhythmic Gymnasts?

It has been suggested that core stability and plyometric training (CPT) can enhance athletes' postural control. Nevertheless, the effects of an integrated core and plyometric training program on rhythmic gymnastics (RG) performance are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an integrated functional CPT program on young rhythmics gymnasts' postural performance. A sample of 44 young female rhythmic gymnasts from a competitive team (age = 10.5 ± 1.8 years) participated in the study. The subjects were randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group. Pre- and posttest design was used. Postural control was assessed using single-leg stance tests and RG-specific balances over a force platform and evaluated by expert RG judges. The experimental group (n = 23) completed an 8-week functional CPT program based on RG technical requirements. Meanwhile, the control group (n = 21) received their usual training sessions. A mixed model of analysis of variance was applied to evaluate the effects of an intrasubject factor and an intersubject factor on each of the dependent variables. After 8 weeks, the experimental group obtained significant better results in some variables of the right support leg with eyes open and left support leg with eyes open single-leg support (p < .01), improvements were also found in some specific RG balances: Arabesque measured on the force platform (p < .01) and the side leg with help balance scored by the judges (p < .01). In conclusion, an integrated functional CPT program improved postural control in young rhythmic gymnasts. Coaches should consider using this CPT to improve RG performance.

The Effect of 6-Week Combined Balance and Plyometric Training on Dynamic Balance and Quickness Performance of Elite Badminton Players.

The study aimed to investigate the effect of combined balance and plyometric training on dynamic balance and quickness performance of elite badminton athletes. Sixteen elite male badminton players volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to a balance-plyometric group (PB: n = 8) and plyometric group (PT: n = 8). The PB group performed balance combined with plyometric training three times a week over 6 weeks (40 min of plyometrics and 20 min of balance training); while the PT group undertook only plyometric training for the same period (3-4 sets × 8-12 reps for each exercise). Both groups were given the same technical training (badminton techniques for 6 days a week). The dynamic stability and quick movement ability were assessed at baseline and after the intervention by measuring the performance of dynamic posture stability test (DPSI and COP), T-running test and hexagon jump test. The results showed that compared to PT, PB induced significantly greater improvements in F-DPSI, L-DPSI (p = 0.003, 0.025, respectively), F-COPAP, F-COPML, F-COPPL, L-COPPL (p = 0.024, 0.002, 0.029, 0.043, respectively), T-running test and hexagon jump test (p < 0.001). The change in L-DPSI, L-COPAP, L-COPML did not differ between PB and PT (p > 0.907). The findings suggest that combined training holds great promise of improving the dynamic balance and quickness performance in elite badminton athletes.

The effects of assisted and resisted plyometric training on jump height and sprint performance among physically active females.

The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of assisted and resisted plyometric jump training on jump height, sprint performance (acceleration (0-20m), maximum speed (30-40m) and 40m sprint time) among physically active females. Fifty-six participants (age: 21.1 ± 1.7 years; body mass: 64.2 ± 7.0 kg; height: 168.0 ± 5.6 cm) were randomly allocated to either an assisted (n = 16) or resisted training group (n = 17), or a control group (n = 14). Nine participants dropped out during the intervention. The training sessions consisted of three different plyometric jump exercises over an eight-week period, while the control group continued their normal training routine. The results revealed a significant between-group difference in jump height and maximal speed. The resisted training group achieved a significantly greater improvement in jump height compared to the active control group (p = .04, ES=1.06), and a significantly greater improvement in maximal speed (p = .02, ES = 0.93) when compared to the assisted training group. No other group differences were observed for jump height, acceleration or in maximal speed (p = .31-.53). The resisted training group improved jump height (p = .01, ES = 0.62) and maximum speed (p = .03, ES = 0.48) from pre- to post-test, while the control group improved maximal speed (p = .04, ES = 0.37) and acceleration (p = .01, ES = 0.68). All three groups improved their 40m sprint time from pre- to post-test (p = .01-.04, ES = 0.38-0.45). In conclusion, resisted plyometric training was more effective than assisted plyometric training for improving the maximal speed and more effective than the active control condition for increasing jump height.

Effect of varied plyometric training in land and aquatic medium on anaerobic power of athletes / Efeito do treinamento pliométrico variado em meio terrestre e aquático na potência anaeróbia de atletas

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to find out the effect of varied plyometric training (land plyometric training, aqua plyometric training and weighted vest aqua-plyometric training) on anaerobic power of school athletes. A total of forty eight (n= 48) district level school athletes were randomly selected. All the subjects were divided into four equal groups: i) land plyometric training group (n=12), ii) aqua plyometric training group (n=12), iii) aqua-plyometric training with weighted vest group (n=12) and iv) control group (n=12). The varied plyometric training was intervened for fourteen weeks in the respective training groups. In the present study, anaerobic power was considered as the dependent variable, and it was measured by Margaria-Kalamen power test. To draw statistical inferences on anaerobic power among the groups in pre and post intervention conditions, ANCOVA was used, followed by Tukey's LSD post-hoc test. The significance of the means was tested at the 0.05 level. Different plyometric training groups improved significantly with respect to the control group in anaerobic power. Therefore, various plyometric training was found as an effective means for developing anaerobic power. A significant difference was also observed between the aqua-plyometric training with weighted vest group and land plyometric training group in anaerobic power. However, rest of the experimental groups didn't differ significantly. Aqua-plyometric training with weighted vest is a more effective training method than land plyometric training for improving the anaerobic power of the school athletes.

RESUMO O objetivo do presente estudo foi descobrir o efeito do treinamento pliométrico variado (treinamento pliométrico terrestre, treinamento aquapliométrico e treinamento aquapliométrico com colete ponderado) na potência anaeróbica de atletas escolares. Um total de quarenta e oito (n= 48) atletas escolares de nível distrital foram selecionados aleatoriamente. Todos os sujeitos foram divididos em quatro grupos iguais: i) grupo treinamento pliométrico terrestre (n=12), ii) grupo treinamento aquapliométrico (n=12), iii) grupo treinamento aquapliométrico com colete ponderado (n=12) e iv) grupo controle (n=12). O treino pliométrico variado foi intervencionado durante quatorze semanas nos respectivos grupos de treino. No presente estudo, a potência anaeróbia foi considerada como variável dependente e foi mensurada pelo teste de potência de Margaria-Kalamen. Para fazer inferências estatísticas sobre a potência anaeróbica entre os grupos nas condições pré e pós-intervenção, foi utilizada a ANCOVA, seguida do teste post-hoc de Tukey LSD. A significância das médias foi testada no nível 0,05. Diferentes grupos de treinamento pliométrico melhoraram significativamente em relação ao grupo controle na potência anaeróbica. Portanto, vários treinamentos pliométricos foram encontrados como um meio eficaz para o desenvolvimento da potência anaeróbica. Uma diferença significativa também foi observada entre o grupo de treinamento aquapliométrico com colete ponderado e o grupo de treinamento pliométrico terrestre na potência anaeróbica. No entanto, o resto dos grupos experimentais não diferiram significativamente. O treinamento aquapliométrico com colete ponderado é um método de treinamento mais eficaz do que o treinamento pliométrico terrestre para melhorar a potência anaeróbica dos atletas escolares.

Effects of high-intensity interval training and plyometric exercise on the physical fitness of junior male handball players.

OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the effects of high intensity interval training (HIIT) combined with plyometric exercise on the physical fitness of junior male handball players. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Subjects (age ~17 years) were randomly divided between experimental (n=17) and control (n=15) groups. During the 8-week intervention, the experimental group replaced a part of their regular regimen by HIIT, combined with plyometric exercise. Assessments in both groups before and after the intervention included: squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), sprint performance (5 m, 10 m, 20 m and 30 m), change of direction tests (Illinois modified test [Illinois-MT] and T-half test), 20-m shuttle run, and repeated sprint T-test. RESULTS: The two-way analyses of variance revealed significant group-time interactions (all p<0.05), favoring the intervention group in 5 m, 10 m, 20 m and 30 m sprint (d=0.33, 8.3%; d=0.52, 7.6%; d=0.57, 6.8%; and d=0.58, 8.8%, respectively), T-half (d=0.25, 5.1%), Illinois-MT (d=0.47, 4.2%), SJ and CMJ (d=0.34-0.39, 34-4-34.9%), repeated sprint T-test best time, mean time and total time (d=0.83, 6.9%; d=0.62, 7.4%; and d=0.61, 7.2%, respectively), 20 meter shuttle run test aerobic maximum speed and predicted maximal oxygen intake (d=0.36, 7.5%; d=0.19, 9.4%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: HIIT combined with plyometrics can aid in the development of physical fitness abilities, which are extremely important to junior male handball players.