A modified plyometric programme to improve jumping ability in volleyball players: influence on jump height and jump endurance

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study the effectiveness of using a complex of plyometric exercises for the development of jumping (vertical jump) in the training process of the women's volleyball team "Kharkiv".

Methods of research: The following methods were used to achieve the goal: literature analysis, pedagogical experiment with testing, mathematical statistics. The volleyball players of the "Kharkiv" team were randomly divided into control (9 persons) and experimental (8 persons) groups. Both groups trained according to the programme for children and youth sports schools, but the experimental group performed an adapted set of plyometric exercises to develop jumping skills. The programme lasted 5 weeks and included technical and tactical training (4 times a week, 120 min) and speed and strength training using plyometric exercises (2 times a week, 40-60 min).

Results. The research evaluated the effectiveness of introducing plyometric exercises into the training process of the players of VC "Kharkiv". At the beginning of the experiment, the control and experimental groups were tested on their jumping abilities (jumping height from a standing start, running start, jumping coordination and jumping endurance). The interim results showed an improvement only in the jumping endurance of the experimental group (p<0.05). The final test after a five-week training cycle showed statistically significant improvements in the experimental group in three indicators: standing jump height, running jump height and jumping endurance (p<0.05).

Conclusions. A five-week cycle of plyometric training significantly improved explosive power and jumping endurance in volleyball players in the experimental group. The height of a jump from a standing position and from a run-up increased in the experimental group, while coordination indicators did not undergo significant changes. These results confirm the effectiveness of the use of plyometric exercises in developing power and speed of repulsion in vertical jumps, as well as jumping endurance.