The effects of an 8 weeks plyometric training program or an explosive strength training program on the Jump-and-Reach Height of male amateur soccer players

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of systematic beach volleyball training and competition on The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of an in-season plyometric training program or an explosive strength training program on vertical jump height of male amateur soccer players. Twenty-one (n=21) volunteer male amateur soccer players were randomly assigned to one of three exercise groups: plyometric training program, explosive strength training program, and plyometric exercises with explosive strength training. The plyometric exercises consisted of the depth jump, split squat jump, elastic jump, and horizontal and vertical jump patterns. The explosive strength training consisted of the leg press, knee extension, and parallel squat. All groups were permitted to participate in regular soccer training. The 3 groups completed their training twice a week for eight weeks. Subjects were tested prior to (pre-test), at four weeks (mid-test), and at eight weeks (posttest). A 3×3 analysis of variance with repeated measures for three levels of test revealed a main effect for training condition with the plyometric exercises and explosive strength training condition different from the other two training conditions. A 2×3 ANOVA with repeated measures for two levels of tests revealed that all conditions of training improved vertical jump height. It was concluded that plyometric training, explosive strength training, or a combination of both can be used to improve vertical jump height during a soccer season for amateur soccer players. © JPES.