Effects of a plyometric training program with and without added load on jumping ability in basketball players

J Strength Cond Res. 2010 Nov;24(11):2955-61. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e37fbe.

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effect of a standard plyometric training protocol with or without added load in improving vertical jumping ability in male basketball players. Twenty-seven players were randomly assigned to 3 groups: a control group (no plyometric training), plyometric training group (PG), and loaded plyometric group (LPG, weighted vests 10-11% body mass). Before and after the 10-week training program, all the players were tested for the 5-jump test (5JT), the squat jump (SJ), and the countermovement jump (CMJ). The PG and LPG groups performed 2 and 3 training sessions per week, during the first 3 and the last 7 weeks, respectively. The results showed that SJ, CMJ, and 5JT were significantly improved only in the PG and LPG groups. The best effects for jumps were observed in LPG (p < 0.01), which showed significantly higher gains than the PG (p < 0.05). In conclusion, it appears that loads added to standard plyometric training program may result in greater vertical and horizontal-jump performances in basketball players.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Performance / physiology
  • Basketball / physiology*
  • Body Mass Index
  • Exercise / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Movement / physiology
  • Muscle Strength / physiology
  • Physical Exertion / physiology
  • Young Adult