Effects of plyometric training on selected kinematic parameters in female volleyball players

The biomechanical effects of plyometric training are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of plyometric training on kinematic parameters in junior female volleyball players. Method: Sixty female volleyball players participated in this study. Players were members of youth and junior squads from several Serbian volleyball clubs. The recordings of volleyball spike jumps were made with a Panasonic NV-MS1 camera, which recorded a rate of 50 frames per second. Recorded data were downloaded to a computer and coordinate data were digitized with the help of software for 2D kinematic analysis. Results: Both the plyometric and the control group showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) in joint kinematics from pre- to post-training on most of the measures for linear velocity. However, no significant differences were found between initial and final measurement for angular joint velocity. Conclusion: The use of a modified or different plyometric training program could potentially improve player’s movement and performance, and lower the athlete’s risk for injury. More research is needed to determine whether instructing athletes to use specific spike jump approach and landing techniques may help to improve kinematic parameters or reduce load on lower extremities.