Effectiveness of Plyometrics Training in Sand Versus Ground in Basketball Players: A Comparative study

INTRODUCTION: Sport specific training in basketball players should also focus on vertical jump height and agility in consistent with demand of the sport. Since plyometrics training improves vertical jump height and agility, it can be useful training strategy to improve the performance of basketball players. Sand training is gentle on joints and also makes the muscles work harder to improve vertical jump. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of the study is to compare the effects of Plyometric training on sand versus ground on vertical jump height and agility in male basketball players. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is to compare the Effect of plyometric training in sand versus ground in basketball players. OBJECTIVES: 1. To increase vertical jump height of subject. 2. To increase agility of subject. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Convenience samples of thirty professional basketball players in the age of 18- 25 were recruited. Following pre-intervention assessment, Interventions using plyometric training on sand and ground protocol was administered on the basketball players. The outcome measures were assessed before the intervention and at the end of sixth week. RESULTS: The study concludes that plyometric training on sand as a useful training strategy to improve vertical jump height and agility in basketball players than plyometric training on ground. CONCLUSION: The results obtained from this study shows significant difference for players trained in sand plyometrics as measured by vertical jump & T-test for agility. The mean difference for vertical jump showed significant increase in the sand group compared with ground group. Similarly, the mean difference for T-test for agility showed reduction in the timing which was more significant for the sand group than the ground group. From the above result it can be concluded that six weeks plyometric training in sand is more effective in improving the vertical jump performance & agility among the basketball players. Hence it can be recommended that plyometric training in sand is more effective, useful & performance oriented rather than the usual training program.