Effect of Plyometric Training on Speed, Agility, and Jump Performance

Abstract

Physiological assessments in modern football are becoming increasingly important for optimal performance not only in adults but also in young. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of plyometric training applied to young football players on speed, agility, and jump parameters. Thirty male football players from the same football club academy participated in the study. Participants were randomly divided into experimental (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. The participants in the experimental group were given agility ladder plyometric training combined with soccer-specific training for 6 weeks. The control group continued their football training. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to test the data obtained from this study in a two-group randomized controlled design for normal distribution. Effect sizes were determined using Cohen’s d. In line with the results obtained, a statistically significant difference was found between the pre-post values in the squat jump test of the experimental group and the squat jump tests of the experimental-control groups (p < .05). In addition, since the effect sizes of the 5 m sprint and standing long jump tests are high, it is thought that plyometric training may have an effect on jumping and speed performance. Consequently, plyometric training programs can be used as effective exercise modalities for maintaining or improving jump and speed performance in young football players. © 2022, Ataturk Universitesi. All rights reserved.