Effects of Six Weeks Plyometric Training in Comparison to Bent Leg Raise (BLR) plus Strength Training on Vertical Jump Height and Agility in Young Basketball Players

Background and Objective: Basketball player needs good fitness, flexibility, power, agility, endurance, strength & vertical jump ability. The aim of this study was to compare and determine the effects of six weeks Plyometric training and Bent Leg Raise (BLR) stretching plus Strength training on vertical jump height (VJH) and agility by Illinois agility test (IAT) in young Basketball Players. Method: 60 participants age between 17-25 years from different Colleges and school were assigned randomly into three groups using quasi randomization procedure. All groups included 20 participants. Group A, B and C performed Plyometric training, BLR stretching plus Strength training and as control group, respectively. Each participant was given training for six weeks with 3 days exercise protocol each week for each group. Outcome measures used were VJH and IAT. Measurements were taken first day prior to the training and at the end of the 3rd and 6th week of the training. Results: ANOVA and repeated measure ANOVA were used. Results were considered to be significant at p<0.05. Significant difference in IAT at the end of 3rd and 6th week of the study between groups. Post Hoc analysis revealed plyometric group to be effective in improving agility. Within group, there was significant difference was found in VJH and IAT in group A and B with p=0.000. Conclusion: Plyometrics and BLR plus strength training for a period of 6-weeks can improve VJH and agility in young basketball players.