Effects of a four-week plyometric training program on measurements of power in male collegiate hockey players

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of plyometric training following a 4-week training program on vertical jump height, 40-yard dash, and anaerobic power. Subjects were 17 in number, healthy, Division 3 male hockey players. All subjects were tested in the vertical jump, 40-yard dash, 10-yard dash, and anaerobic power using the Wingate Bike test prior to starting the plyometric program. The subjects then completed a 4-week plyometric training program and were retested. There were significant differences in the mean anaerobic power drop percentage, peak relative power, peak power, right foot vertical jump height, left foot vertical jump height. Overall the findings indicated that two days/week of plyometric training for 4-weeks is sufficient to elicit improvements in single leg vertical jump height and overall power endurance. In conclusion, plyometric training significantly improves anaerobic power and single leg vertical jump height independent of one another.