. 2010 Oct;24(10):2670-6.

doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e2728f.

Effects of in-season on leg power, jump- and sprint performance of soccer players

Affiliations

Abstract

Our hypothesis was that the addition of an 8-week lower limb plyometric training program (hurdle and depth jumping) to normal in-season conditioning would enhance measures of competitive potential (peak power output [PP], jump force, jump height, and lower limb muscle volume) in junior soccer players. The subjects (23 men, age 19 ± 0.7 years, body mass 70.5 ± 4.7 kg, height 1.75 ± 0.06 m, body fat 14.7 ± 2.6%) were randomly assigned to a control (normal training) group (Gc; n = 11) and an experimental group (Gex, n = 12) that also performed biweekly plyometric training. A force-velocity ergometer test determined PP. Characteristics of the squat jump (SJ) and the countermovement jump (CMJ) (jump height, maximal force and velocity before take-off, and average power) were determined by force platform. Video-camera kinematic analyses over a 40-m sprint yielded running velocities for the first step (VS), the first 5 m (V5m) and between 35 and 40 m (Vmax). Leg muscle volume was estimated using a standard anthropometric kit. Gex showed gains relative to controls in PP (p < 0.01); SJ (height p < 0.01; velocity p < 0.001), CMJ (height p < 0.001; velocity p < 0.001, average power p < 0.01) and all sprint velocities (p < 0.001 for V5m and Vmax, p < 0.01 for VS). There was also a significant increase (p < 0.05) in thigh muscle volume, but leg muscle volume and mean thigh cross-sectional area remain unchanged. We conclude that biweekly plyometric training of junior soccer players (including adapted hurdle and depth jumps) improved important components of athletic performance relative to standard in-season training. Accordingly, such exercises are highly recommended as part of an annual soccer training program.

Analysis By CORE Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, Dr Mark Rathjen PT DPT.

Countless studies have shown the plyo drills increase power, explosive power, jumping, sprinting and agility metrics greater than that of which traditional strength training alone cannot match. In the above study we short duration type plyo training and its measurable increases in performance during bi weekly workouts during in season soccer players. We do understand during season training will have to decreased in volume as to allow proper rest, and recovery. We can see a short duration program of 8 weeks is still more than enough time to have a measurable benefit.

At CORE Physical Therapy, we utilize various plyo drills and protocols we have developed over the last 2 decades. The strategies utilized will greatly depend on the type of athlete, position and sport of said athlete, and the recovery or deficits the patient is currently experiencing. With that information, we formulate the most efficient strategies to increase performance metrics and still allow adequate recovery.

Physical Therapy and Sports Performance PC, is owned and Operated by Dr. Mark 

Rathjen and Dr. Claire Rathjen. CORE is a family owned business that has been established in 

2015 and is proud to serve the greater Omaha metro area. We specialize in the treatment of athletes.

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