Effect of plyometric training on performance parameters in young handball players

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a 6-week plyometric exercise program on certain performance parameters of young handball players.METHODS: In this study, 33 handball players took part, aged 12.41±2.05 years, body mass 48.32±3.91 kg, body height 154.55±2.27 cm and an average training experience of 2.08±1.93 years. The subjects were randomly divided into experimental (N.=19) and control (N.=14) groups. The experimental group was subjected to a plyometric program besides normal handball training while the control group followed the usual training program. Speed was measured for 10m, 20m and agility T-test was also recorded. Four jumping tests were also measured, squat jump and counter movement jump bilateral and unilateral with left leg and right leg. The plyometric training program was applied for 6 weeks, 2 sessions per week with the same drills, 144-foot contacts in every session.RESULTS: After 6 weeks of plyometric training, the experimental group showed significant change only in T-agility test (P=0.000). The rest of the performance parameters for experimental group showed improvements but were not significant (P≥0.05). The control group that participated in the usual training program showed no significant differences between the two tests.CONCLUSIONS: The plyometric program must be implemented with specific exercises that promote adequate training stimulus in order to improve specific performance parameters.