DETERMINING VARIABLES OF PLYOMETRIC TRAINING

FOR IMPROVING VERTICAL JUMP HEIGHT

PERFORMANCE: A META-ANALYSIS
EDUARDO SAÉZ-SAEZ DE VILLARREAL,1 ELEFTHERIOS KELLIS,2 WILLIAM J. KRAEMER,3
4
AND MIKEL IZQUIERDO
1
University Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain; 2Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece; 3Human Performance
Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut; and 4Research, Studies and Sport
Medicine Center, Government of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain

ABSTRACT and conditioning professionals with regard to the most

Saez Saez de Villarreal, E, Kellis, E, Kraemer, WJ, and Izquierdo, M. appropriate dose-response trends for optimizing plyometric-
Determining variables of plyometric training for improving induced gains.
vertical jump height performance: a meta-analysis. J Strength KEY WORDS power, effect size, lower limb, training volume,
Cond Res 23(2): xxx–xxx, 2009—Plyometric training improves intensity
vertical jump height (VJH). However, the effectiveness of
plyometric training depends on various factors. A meta-analysis
INTRODUCTION
of 56 studies with a total of 225 effect sizes (ESs) was carried

P
out to analyze the role of various factors on the effects of lyometrics refers to exercises that are designed to
enhance muscle, mainly through the use of jump
plyometrics on VJH performance. The inclusion criteria for the
training. Plyometric exercises constitute a natural
analysis were a) studies using plyometric programs for lower-
part of most sport movements because they involve
limb muscles, b) studies employing true experimental designs
jumping, hopping, and skipping (i.e., such as high jumping,
and valid and reliable measurements, and c) studies including throwing, or kicking) (4,5,7). Plyometric exercises come in
enough data to calculate ESs. Subjects with more experience in various forms depending on the purposes of a training
sport obtained greater enhancements in VJH performance (p , program. Typical plyometric exercises include the counter-
0.01). Subjects in either good or bad physical condition benefit movement jump (CMJ), the drop jump (DJ), and the squat
equally from plyometric work (p , 0.05), although men tend jump (SJ). These exercises either can be combined within
to obtain better power results than women after plyometric a training program or can be applied independently.
training (p , 0.05). With relation to the variables of perfor- Furthermore, plyometrics can be performed at various
mance, training volumes of more than 10 weeks and more than intensity levels, ranging from low-intensity double-leg hops
20 sessions, using high-intensity programs (with more than to high unilateral-intensity drills. As far as the lower body is
concerned, plyometrics includes the performance of various
50 jumps per session), were the strategies that seemed to
types of body-weight jumping exercises, such as DJ, CMJ,
maximize the probability of obtaining significantly greater
alternate-leg bounding, hopping, and other stretch-shortening
improvements in performance (p , 0.05). To optimize jumping
cycle (SSC) jumping exercises (12,15,20,24). These exercises
enhancement, the combination of different types of plyometrics are characterized by SSC actions; that is, they start with
(squat jump + countermovement jump + drop jump) is a rapid stretch of a muscle (eccentric phase) and are followed
recommended rather than using only 1 form (p , 0.05). by a rapid shortening of the same muscle (concentric phase)
However, no extra benefits were found to be gained from doing (12,16,18,19,24,54).
plyometrics with added weight. The responses identified in this Plyometric training improves strength, muscle power,
analysis are essential and should be considered by strength coordination, and athletic performance (1,6,8,13,21,27,50).
Numerous studies on plyometric training have demon-
strated improvements in vertical jump height (VJH) (1,11,
Address correspondence to Eduardo Sáez Sáez de Villarreal, edysaez@ 21,25,30,33,38,45,50,55,61,63,96,97) ranging from 4.7 to 15%
hotmail.com. that could be attributed to the enhanced coordination and
0(0)/1–12 muscle power after training (1,94). In contrast, a number of
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research authors failed to report significant positive effects of
Ó 2009 National Strength and Conditioning Association plyometric on VJH (47,66,87), and some even have reported

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Plyometric Training: A Meta-Analysis

negative effects (58). However, the characteristics of a training, pliometrique, entrainement pliometrique). These
training program that achieves better gains are not clear key words were introduced in the databases ADONIS, ERIC,
(5,10,21,30,38). SPORTSDiscus, EBSCOhost, MedLine, and PubMed.
The effects of plyometric training may differ depending Moreover, manual searches of relevant journals and reference
on various subjects’ characteristics, such as training level lists obtained from articles were conducted. The present
(21,48,56,63,67), gender (17,95), age (17,44,68), sport activity, or meta-analysis includes studies published in journals that have
familiarity with plyometric training (11,20,21,26,27,35,90,91). presented original research data on healthy human subjects.
Research studies that combine these variables in different No age, gender, or language restrictions were imposed during
ways sometimes lead to conflicting results (30,33,58,60,63,64, the search stage.
66,75,82,83,87,98). Other factors that seem to determine the
effectiveness of plyometric training are program duration and Study Selection. Research studies implementing plyometric
training volume. Research studies have used numerous training programs for lower-limb muscles were used.
combinations of duration, intensity, and volume character- Investigations involving training of the upper-limb muscles
istics (1,11,21,26,42,48,52,56,59,60,66,72,74,75,83,84,88,92, as well as summaries or abstracts were rejected. A total of 70
96,97); therefore, the optimal combination of these factors studies were initially identified.
for maximum achievement remains unclear. The next step was to select studies with respect to their
Research findings on the ideal box height to optimize internal validity. Selection was based on the recommenda-
plyometric training are also conflicting (5,8,16,54,57). Some tions of Campbell and Stanley (23) and included 1) studies
authors suggest optimum DJ heights less than (5,14,16,54) or involving a control group, 2) randomized control studies, 3)
more than 60 cm (89), because one may optimize maximal studies using instruments with high reliability and validity,
power output. Furthermore, inconclusive results also arise and 4) studies with minimal experimental mortality. Fifty-six
from studies that have used additional weight during studies were selected after having completed all quality
plyometric exercises to maximize muscle power gains (21,33, conditions (1,2,4,7,9–11,21,22,25–38,43,47,48,50,51–53,56,58–
50,60,63,66,70,72,82,83,84). Plyometric exercises also have 60,62–63,65–67,69–72,75,76,78,80–84,87,92,96–98) (Table 1).
been successful when combined with other types of training
such as electrostimulation or aerobics (25,47,60,72,83). Identification of the Independent Variables. Each study was read
Despite the advantages of plyometric training, the principal and coded independently by 2 investigators using different
issue of determining the optimal elements of a plyometric moderator variables. Because of the high number of variables
program remains inconclusive. Identification of the role of the that may affect training effectiveness, independent variables
various elements of a plyometric training program with were grouped into the following areas: 1) subject character-
regard to their effectiveness can be achieved with the use of istics: variables included age (years), body mass (kg), height
meta-analysis: a method that allows us to overcome the (cm), years of experience, group size, level of fitness, sports
problems of small sample size and low statistical power. Meta- level, and type of sport activity; 2) program exercises:
analysis is a quantitative approach in which individual study variables included combination with other types of exercise,
findings addressing a common problem are statistically intensity of session, types of plyometric exercises, and
integrated and analyzed (46). Because meta-analysis can resistance; 3) program elements: variables included duration
effectively increase the overall sample size, it also can provide of the session, frequency of weekly sessions, program
a more precise estimate of the effect of plyometrics on VJH. duration, total number of sessions, drop height, number of
In addition, meta-analysis can account for the factors partly jumps per session, number of exercises per session, and rest
responsible for the variability in treatment effects observed intervals between series of exercises; and 4) outcome
among different training studies (1,11,21,47,58,66,87). Thus, measurements: the type of power test used to identify gains
the purpose of this study was to examine the influence of in SJ, CMJ, DJ, or Sargent jump. The coding agreement
various factors on the effectiveness of plyometric training between investigators was determined by dividing the
using a meta-analysis approach. variables coded the same by the total number of variables.
A mean agreement of 0.90 is accepted as an appropriate
level of reliability in the coding procedure (74). Mean
METHODS
agreement was 0.91 in our study. Each coding difference
In the present study, the meta-analysis was performed in was scrutinized by both investigators and was resolved before
different steps, grounded in previous recommendations (79). the analysis.

Experimental Approach to the Problem Calculation of Effect Size. Effect size (ES) is a standardized
Search of Scientific Literature. A search was performed using value that permits the determination of the magnitude of the
key words in the English and French languages (e.g., jump differences between groups or experimental conditions (85).
training, drop jump, depth jump, stretch-shortening cycle, Gain ESs were calculated using Hedges and Olkin’s g (46),
plyometric, plyometrics, training of power, plyometric using Formula ½1
: g = (Mpost 2 Mpre)/SDpooled, where Mpost
the TM

2 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

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 TABLE 1. Summary of characteristics of all studies meeting the inclusion criteria.

Authors Gr Year Treatm n G Age W H Exp KPly Fit VJG ES Freq D wk Int BH No. J No. E Tply R JL Test

Adams et al. E 1987 Plyo 38 M 13 — — Nat N G 0.6 0.06 3 10 Low 56 30 1 DJ — N S

Adams et al. E 1992 Plyo 48 M 23 — — NR N N 3.81 0.63 2 6 H 50 75 3 DJ 120 N S
Adams et al. E 1992 Ply+WT 48 M 23 — — NR N N 10.67 1.76 2 6 H 50 75 3 DJ 120 N S
Anderst et al. E 1994 Plyo 20 M — — — NR N N 8.4 0.38 3 12 Low 40 10 2 C+D — N CMJ
Bauer et al. E 1990 Plyo 37 B 23.3 73.7 173 NR N N 2.7 0.3 3 8 Mod — — 1 SJ — N S
Bauer et al. E 1990 Ply+Sw 37 B 21.3 69.5 174 NR N N 5 0.56 3 8 Mod — — 1 SJ — N S
Bauer et al. E 1990 Ply+WT 37 B 25 71.4 172 NR N N 4.1 0.31 3 8 Mod — — 1 SJ — N S
Berger E 1963 Ply+aer 89 M 16 — — NA N N 20.99 0.37 3 7 Low — 10 1 SJ — N S
Blakey et al. E 1987 Ply+WT 31 M 19.5 — — NR Y G 11.11 0.72 3 8 Mod 110 30 1 DJ — N —
Blakey et al. E 1987 Ply+WT 31 M 19.5 — — NR Y N 11.43 0.37 3 8 Mod 40 30 1 DJ — N —
Blattner et al. E 1979 Plyo 48 M 17 — — NA N B 5.2 1.05 3 8 Mod 86 30 1 DJ — NR S
Blattner et al. C 1979 — 48 M 17 — — NA N B 0.71 0.02 — — NR — — — — — NR —
Brown et al. E 1986 Plyo 26 M 15 67.9 180.8 Nat N G 7.3 1.34 3 12 Low 45 30 3 DJ 60 N CMJ
Brown et al. C 1986 — 26 M 15 67.9 180 Nat N G 3.7 0.55 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Clutch et al. E 1983 Ply+WT 12 M 20.9 77.7 179 NA N N 3.35 1.4 2 4 Low 30 40 1 DJ 120 N CMJ
Clutch et al. E 1983 Ply+WT 12 M 20.9 77.7 179 NA N N 2.97 1.11 2 4 Low 75 40 1 DJ 120 N CMJ
Clutch et al. E 1983 Ply+WT 32 M 21.2 87.5 183 Nat Y G 2.85 0.27 2 16 Low 75 40 1 DJ 120 N S
Clutch et al. E 1983 Ply+WT 32 M 21.2 87.5 183 Reg Y G 3.88 0.47 2 16 Low 75 40 1 DJ 120 N S
Cornu et al. E 1997 Plyo 19 M 22.3 — — Reg Y G 7.19 0.41 1 7 Mod 40 450 5 S+D — N —
Cornu et al. C 1997 — 19 M 26 — — NA N B 24.93 0.13 — — NR — — — — — NR —
Cossor et al. E 1999 Plyo 38 M 11.7 47.4 159.1 Nat N E 1.2 0.18 3 20 Mod — 450 15 C — N CMJ
Cossor et al. C 1999 — 38 M 11.7 44 154.7 Nat N E 3 0.6 3 20 Mod — 450 15 C — N CMJ
the

Chimera et al. E 2004 Ply+aer 20 F 20 59.7 165.6 Nat N G 1 0.46 2 6 Mod 46 150 5 C 120 N DJ
Delecluse et al. E 1995 Plyo 78 M 20 70.2 177 NA N N 0.21 0.37 2 9 Low — 50 5 C — N —
Delecluse et al. C 1995 — 78 M 20 70.2 177 NA N N 0.04 0.07 — — NR — — — — — NR —
Di Brezzo et al. E 1988 Plyo 8 F 14 — — NR N N 2.28 0.64 3 5 Low 12 — 2 C — N S
Diallo et al. E 2001 Plyo 20 M 12.3 41.2 153.1 Reg N N 3.4 0.76 3 10 Mod 20 250 3 DJ — N CMJ
Diallo et al. C 2001 — 20 M 12.6 39.2 147.4 Reg N N 0 0 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Duke et al. E 1992 Ply+WT 10 M 16 — — Reg N G 6.35 0.11 3 6 H — 300 4 C — N S
Fatouros et al. E 2000 Plyo 41 M 21.1 83.4 178 NA N B 6 2.25 3 12 H 30 150 5 C — N S
Fatouros et al. E 2000 Ply+WT 41 M 20.1 79.9 178 NA N B 8.6 2.57 3 12 H 30 150 5 C — N S
Fatouros et al. C 2000 — 41 M 20.5 80.8 181 NA N B 0.4 0.22 — — NR — — — — — NR S
Ford et al. E 1983 Plyo 50 M 17 — — NA N N 3.12 0.36 3 10 Low 60 15 1 DJ 30 Y DJ
Fowler et al. E 1995 Ply+WT 18 M 22.7 77.5 181.5 Reg Y G 4 0.76 4 3 H — 50 2 SJ — Y CMJ
Fry et al. E 1991 Ply+WT 14 F 19.6 64.3 171.9 Nat N E 3.3 0.53 2 12 Mod — — 7 C — N S
Gauffin et al. E 1988 Plyo 54 M 20 — — Nat N E 3 0.39 3 10 Low — 30 1 CMJ — N CMJ
Gauffin et al. C 1988 — 54 M 20 — — Nat N E 20.09 0.11 — — NR — — — — — NR —
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Gehri et al. E 1998 Plyo 28 B 19.3 56.76 174.4 NA N N 1.65 0.17 2 12 Mod — 32 1 CMJ 60 N CMJ
Gehri et al. E 1998 Plyo 28 B 19.3 56.76 174.4 NA N N 2.4 0.4 2 12 Mod — 32 1 CMJ 60 N DJ
Gehri et al. E 1998 Plyo 28 B 20 65.28 174.1 NA N N 2.13 0.2 2 12 Mod 40 32 1 DJ 60 N CMJ
Gehri et al. E 1998 Plyo 28 B 20 65.28 174.1 NA N N 2.79 0.44 2 12 Mod 40 32 1 DJ 60 N DJ

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Gehri et al. C 1998 — 28 B 19.8 59.21 170.5 NA N N 20.86 0.08 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Gehri et al. C 1998 — 28 B 19.8 59.21 170.5 NA N N 0.18 0.02 — — NR — — — — — NR DJ

the
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 7.6 1.67 3 24 H — 200 3 S+C+D — N SJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 4.8 1.32 3 24 H — 200 3 S+C+D — Y SJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 6.9 1.68 3 24 H — 200 3 S+C+D — N CMJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 5.2 1.42 3 24 H — 200 3 S+C+D — Y CMJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 7.8 1.59 3 24 H 20 200 3 S+C+D — N DJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 8.3 1.82 3 24 H 60 200 3 S+C+D — N DJ
Häkkinen et al. E 1985 Plyo 10 M 27.1 74.7 176.3 NA Y G 9 1.79 3 24 H 100 200 3 S+C+D — N DJ
Herrero et al. E 2006 Plyo 40 M 20.8 79.7 179 NA N N 20.4 0.12 2 4 H — 100 — C 180 N CMJ
Herrero et al. E 2006 Ply+EMS 40 M 21.4 80.2 179 NA N N 2.5 0.36 4 4 H — 100 — C 180 N CMJ
Hewett et al. E 1996 Ply+WT 20 B 15 62.74 169.5 Nat N N 3 0.54 3 6 Mod — — 7 C 30 N CMJ
Plyometric Training: A Meta-Analysis

Holcomb et al. E 1996 Plyo 51 M 16 84.1 183 NA N G 4.7 0.54 3 8 Mod — 72 1 CMJ — N CMJ
Holcomb et al. E 1996 Plyo 51 M 16 83.2 185 NA N G 6.1 0.84 3 8 Mod 40 72 3 DJ — N CMJ
Holcomb et al. C 1996 — 51 M 16 73.6 181 NA N G 1.2 0.15 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Holtz et al. E 1988 Plyo 6 M 17 — — Nat N G 5.07 0.42 2 10 Low — — — — — N S
Hunter et al. E 2002 Plyo 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 3.7 0.7 2 10 Mod 30 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

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Hunter et al. E 2002 Plyo 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 3.5 0.63 2 10 Mod 60 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ
Hunter et al. E 2002 Plyo 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 2.3 0.42 2 10 Mod 90 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ
Hunter et al. E 2002 Ply+St 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 4.9 0.85 2 10 Mod — 60 6 C+D 60 Y CMJ
Hunter et al. E 2002 Ply+St 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 3.5 0.62 2 10 Mod 30 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ
Hunter et al. E 2002 Ply+St 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 3.5 0.68 2 10 Mod 60 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ
Hunter et al. E 2002 Ply+St 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 3.4 0.63 2 10 Mod 90 60 6 C+D 60 Y DJ
Hunter et al. C 2002 — 50 M 24 82.93 182 Reg N N 0.03 0.05 — — NR — — — — — NR DJ
Irmischer et al. E 2004 Plyo 28 F 24 65.3 170 NA N N 5 0.88 2 9 Low — 175 5 C 180 N S
Kotzamanidis E 2006 Plyo 30 M 11.1 49.6 156.8 NA N N 7.97 1.32 2 10 Mod 20 80 — C 180 N SJ
Kramer et al. E 1983 Ply+WT 28 F 21.3 66.5 170 Nat Y E 2.2 0.23 3 9 Mod 30 — 4 S+D — N S
Luebbers et al. E 2003 Plyo 38 M — — — NR N N 1.9 0.22 3 4 H — 272 4 C 30 N CMJ
Luebbers et al. E 2003 Plyo 38 M — — — NR N N 2.6 0.38 3 7 H — 155 4 C 30 N CMJ
Lyttle et al. E 1996 Plyo 39 M 23.9 79.1 182.3 Reg N G 3.8 0.37 2 8 Mod — 40 1 SJ — N CMJ
Lyttle et al. E 1996 Ply+WT 39 M 23.8 72.5 178.4 Reg N G 5.6 0.43 2 8 Mod 20 10 1 DJ .— N CMJ
Lyttle et al. C 1996 — 39 M 20.6 74.2 177.3 Reg N G 0.2 0.02 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Maffiuletti et al. E 2002 Ply+EMS 20 M 21.8 80.5 190.7 Reg Y E 5.2 0.8 3 4 Mod 40 50 2 C+D 180 N CMJ
Maffiuletti et al. C 2002 — 20 M 22.3 75.2 180.6 Reg Y E 0.2 0.02 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Martel et al. E 2005 Ply+Sw 19 F 15 64 167 Nat N G 3.7 0.69 2 6 Mod — — — C 30 N S
Martel et al. C 2005 — 19 F 14 57 164 Nat N G 1.3 0.2 — — — — — — — — S
Matavulj et al. E 2001 Plyo 33 M 15.5 — — Int N E 4.8 1.13 3 6 Mod 50 30 1 DJ 180 N CMJ
Matavulj et al. E 2001 Plyo 33 M 15.5 — — Int N E 5.6 1.32 3 6 Mod 100 30 1 DJ 180 N CMJ
Matavulj et al. C 2001 — 33 M 15.2 — — Int N E 0 0 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Miller E 1982 Plyo 24 F — — — NA N B 5 0.72 1 8 Mod 50 50 1 DJ — N NR
Miller C 1982 — 24 F — — — NA N B 0 0 — — NR — — — — — — NR
Miller et al. E 2002 Plyo 40 B 21.5 72.2 171.1 NA N B 1.5 0.05 2 8 Mod — 100 5 C — N S
Miller et al. E 2002 Ply+Sw 40 B 22 74.2 170.8 NA N B 3.7 0.1 2 8 Mod — 100 5 C — N S
Miller et al. C 2002 — 40 B 23 79.8 177.8 NA N B 1.8 0.04 — — NR — — — — — NR S
Newton et al. E 1999 Plyo 16 M 19 84 189 Nat Y E 3.9 0.81 2 8 Low 30 36 3 S+C+D — N CMJ
Newton et al. C 1999 — 16 M 19 84 189 Nat Y E 0.01 0.01 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Polhemus et al. E 1980 Ply+WT 27 M 26 — — NR N N 3 0.72 3 6 Mod 25 35 2 S+D 60 Y S

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 Poole et al. E 1987 Plyo 75 B 21.6 76.27 173.4 Nat N G 2.37 0.45 3 10 Mod 75 40 1 DJ — N S
Poole et al. E 1987 Plyo 75 B 18.7 69.54 170.1 Nat N G 2.09 0.41 2 10 Mod 75 40 1 DJ — N S
Poole et al. C 1987 Plyo 75 B 21.1 75.64 174.8 Nat N G 0.58 0.13 — — NR — — — — — N S
Potteiger et al. E 1999 Plyo 19 M 21.3 — 185 NR N N 2.7 1.17 3 8 H — 320 4 SJ 30 N CMJ
Potteiger et al. E 1999 Ply+aer 19 M 21.3 — 185 NR N N 3.1 1.06 3 8 H — 320 4 SJ 30 N CMJ
Rimmer et al. E 2000 Plyo 32 M 24 83 177 NR N G 0.05 0.44 2 8 H — 117 4 C 180 N —
Rimmer et al. C 2000 — 32 M 24 83 177 NR N G 0.01 0.2 — — NR —. — — — — NR —
Sáez-Sáez de E 2008 Plyo 42 M 22.3 75.6 174.7 NA N N 0.55 0.11 1 7 H 60 60 1 DJ 60 N CMJ
Villarreal et al.
Sáez-Sáez de E 2008 Plyo 42 M 23.1 80.1 176.6 NA N N 4.6 0.75 2 7 H 60 60 1 DJ 60 N CMJ
Villarreal et al.
Sáez-Sáez de E 2008 Plyo 42 M 21.8 72.68 175.5 NA N N 5.16 0.82 4 7 H 60 60 1 DJ 60 N CMJ
Villarreal et al.
Sáez-Sáez de C 2008 — 42 M 23.6 78.56 180.3 NA N N 0.31 0.07 — — — — — — — — N CMJ
Villarreal et al.
Scoles E 1978 Plyo 26 NR — — — NA N B 3 0.12 2 8 Low 75 20 1 DJ — N S
Scoles C 1978 — 26 NR — — — NA N B 1 0.09 — — NR — — — — — N S
Schmidtbleicher et al. E 1988 Plyo 9 M 21 — — NR Y NR 2.2 0.56 4 4 Low — 60 1 SJ 300 N SJ
Schmidtbleicher et al. E 1988 Plyo 9 M 21 — — NR Y NR 3.5 0.43 4 4 Low 32 60 1 DJ 300 N DJ
Schmidtbleicher et al. E 1988 Plyo 9 M 21 — — NR Y NR 3.7 0.48 4 4 Low 40 60 1 DJ 300 N DJ
Schmidtbleicher et al. E 1988 Plyo 9 M 21 — — NR Y NR 3.8 0.44 4 4 Low 48 60 1 DJ 300 N DJ
Schmidtbleicher et al. E 1988 Plyo 9 M 21 — — NR Y NR 2.7 0.36 4 4 Low 56 60 1 DJ 300 N DJ
Siegler et al. E 2003 Ply+WT 34 F 16.5 61.46 167.4 Nat N N 1.72 0.33 3 10 Low — 50 3 C — N S
Siegler et al. C 2003 — 34 F 16.3 58 166.7 Nat N N 0.73 0.7 — — NR — — — — — NR S
Spurrs et al. E 2003 Ply+aer 17 M 25 72.4 178 NR N E 5 0.69 3 6 NR — 90 4 C — N CMJ
Spurrs et al. C 2003 — 17 M 25 72.4 178 NR N E 21 0.21 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
the

Steben E 1981 Plyo 160 B 15 — — NA N B 10 1.23 5 7 Low 25 15 1 DJ — N SJ

Turner et al. E 2003 Plyo 21 B 31 65.4 170 Reg N N 2 0.24 3 6 Low — 70 6 C — N CMJ
Turner et al. C 2003 — 21 B 27 71.5 174 Reg N N 0 0 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Wagner et al. E 1997 Plyo 60 M 17.5 — — Reg N N 0.05 0.09 3 6 H 30 80 4 C — N S
Wagner et al. C 1997 — 60 M 17.5 — — NA N B 0.01 0.01 — — NR — — — — — NR S
Wilson et al. E 1993 Plyo 64 NR 22.1 71.6 174 NR Y N 3.7 0.51 2 10 Mod 20 60 2 DJ 180 N CMJ
Wilson et al. C 1993 — 64 NR 24.1 76.1 173 NR Y N 0.08 0.08 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Wilson et al. E 1996 Plyo 45 M 20.5 81.1 181 Reg N G 10.4 0.89 2 8 Mod 20 40 2 DJ 180 N CMJ
Wilson et al. C 1996 — 45 M 24.5 75.9 175 Reg N G 3.3 0.42 — — NR — — — — — NR CMJ
Witzke et al. E 2000 Plyo 56 F 14.6 61 164.3 NA N B 12 0.55 3 36 Mod — 120 6 C — N —
Treatm = treatment; Plyo = plyometric; Ply+aer = aerobic; Ply+WT = weight training; Ply+EMS = electrostimulation; Ply+Sw = in water; Ply+St = stretching; JL = jump loaded;
Y = yes; N = no.
Gr = group; E = experimental; C = control; G = gender; M = men; F = women; B = both; W = weight (kg); H = height (cm); Kply = knows plyometric; N = no; Y = yes; T = test;
S = Sargent.
Exp = experience; Nat = national; Reg = regional; NA = no athlete; Int = international; Fit = fitness; E = elite; G = good; N = normal; B = bad; NR = not reported.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
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Tply = type of plyometric training; C = combined; SJ = squat jump; DJ = drop jump; CMJ = countermovement jump; S+D = SJ + DJ; C+D = CMJ + DJ; S+C+D = SJ + CMJ + DJ;
R = rest (s); VJG = vertical jump gains (cm).
Freq = frequency (dwk21); D wk = duration weeks; Int = intensity; H = high; Mod = moderate; BH = box height (cm); No. J = number of jumps; No. E = number of exercises.

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Plyometric Training: A Meta-Analysis

is the mean for the post test and Mpre is the mean for the pretest, differences in ESs were found among the different combi-
and SDpooled is the pooled SD of the measurements. ½2
: nations of plyometric training or among programs with and
without added resistance (Table 3).
ðMpost  Mpre Þ The results show a positive relationship (p , 0.05) between
SD pooled ¼ qffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffi
ððn1  1ÞSD 21 þ ðn2  1ÞSD 21 Þ=ðn1 þ n2  2Þ program duration (r = 0.452), number of sessions (r = 0.515),
and number of jumps per session (r = 0.391) with plyometric
training effect (Table 4). No differences in ES (p . 0.05) were
In those cases for which mean and SD values were not
available, ESs were calculated using F,t, or p values, as found among the different power tests (Table 5).
outlined by Rosenthal (77). For correlational studies, r values DISCUSSION
were converted to g using Formula ½3
:
The results of this investigation support previous narrative
sffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffi
reviews (12,61) that have concluded that plyometric training
r df ðn1 þ n2 Þ
g ¼ pffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffi seems to be an effective training method for the improve-
1r 2 n1 3n2 ment of vertical jumping ability (ES = 0.84; i.e., plyometric
Correction of Effect Size. It has been suggested (77,79,85) that group). Thus, the reported VJH enhancement of .7% (i.e.,
ES should be corrected for the magnitude of the sample size 3.90 cm) resulting from plyometric training could be of
of each study. Therefore, correction was performed using practical relevance for trained athletes in sports aiming
Formula ½4
: 1 2 3 / (4m 2 9), where m = n 2 1, as proposed at achieving optimum jumping performance. In addition,
by Hedges and Olkin (46). several studies focusing on plyometrics have demonstrated
that a significant increase in VJH of 10% was accompanied by
a respective increase in sport-specific jumping (12,61). The
Statistical Analyses
present meta-analysis offers robust quantitative evidence to
To examine the effect of the categorical independent variables
this conclusion, together with a precise estimate of the effects
on the ES, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used
of plyometric training on jump height in particular types of
(39,77,86). In the case of quantitative independent variables
vertical jumps. Furthermore, the results of this study provide
(e.g., age, height, duration of the treatment in weeks, number
valuable information concerning the importance of control-
of jumps per session) a Pearson (r) correlation test was used
ling some determinant variables for the improvement of
to examine the relationships between ESs and variable values
jumping performance.
(77). Statistical significance was set at p # 0.05 for all analyses.
It is well known that sample size influences the power to
The scale used for interpretation was the one proposed by
detect real and significant effects (46). The typical sample size
Rhea (73), which is specific to strength training research and
in almost all previous studies on plyometrics ranged from
the training status of the subjects to evaluate the relative
8 to 12 subjects per group. The present results show a low
magnitude of an ES. The magnitudes of the ESs were con-
negative correlation between sample size and training gains.
sidered either trivial (,0.35), small (0.35 2 0.80), moderate
It seems that the greater the sample size, the worse the ES.
(0.80 2 1.50), or large (.1.5).
Most studies used small sample sizes, and therefore a gener-
alization of their findings would be inappropriate. Therefore,
RESULTS one may suggest that studies using large sample sizes are
The analysis showed that the average ES of the plyometric necessary to better illustrate the effects of plyometric training.
training group (0.84; n = 107; 3.90 cm) was significantly Plyometric training requires appropriate technical ability
higher (p , 0.05) compared with the ES of controls (0.13; n = as well as optimum levels of muscle strength and joint
44; 0.84 cm). The Pearson test showed a negative correlation coordination. For this reason, subjects with low fitness levels
between sample size (r = 20.221, p = 0.05) and ES. or less experienced individuals are expected to benefit less
With regard to subject characteristics, the results indicate from such training (3,49). However, the results of the present
a significant correlation coefficient for age (r = 0.240) and meta-analysis indicate equal ESs for subjects of various fitness
years of experience (r = 0.575) with the magnitude of the ES levels (Table 2). These results might indicate that when
(Table 2). The ANOVA showed a significant (p , 0.05) subjects can adequately follow plyometric exercises, the
gender effect and sport level (p , 0.05) on ES (Table 2). No training gains are independent of fitness level.
other significant effects were found. Furthermore, our results suggest that higher enhancements
The ANOVA showed a significant effect regarding the after plyometric training can be observed in athletes com-
intensity of a session (p , 0.05) and the type of plyometric peting at the international level compared with those gains
exercise (p , 0.05). According to the reported data, in these reached in athletes at the regional level (Table 2). This is
athletes, a post hoc analysis also indicated that maximal gains further supported by a moderate correlation coefficient between
were obtained with the combined use of SJs, CMJs, and DJs years of experience and ES (Table 2) and suggests that plyo-
during a training session, showing significantly higher gains metric training is essential for top-level and experienced
(p , 0.05) compared with other plyometric exercises. No athletes. Plyometrics improve SSC use with reduced energy
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TABLE 2. Analysis for independent variables of subject characteristics.

Subject characteristics

Average
Independent variables (cm) 6 SD F Level ES SD n r p

Age (y) 116 0.24 0.01*

Mass (kg) 79 0.221
Height (cm) 81 0.209
Years of experience 15 0.575 0.05*
Group size 122 20.079

Previous experience F(1,121) = 2.15 p = 0.145

Familiarized 4.18 6 2.13 0.81 0.58 30
Not familiarized 3.80 6 2.37 0.64 0.54 92

Fitness F(3,121) = 1.97 p = 0.102

Bad 3.36 6 2.88 0.8 0.99 18
Normal 3.15 6 1.78 0.54 0.33 49
Good 5.07 6 2.45 0.84 0.57 37
Elite 4.35 6 2.00 0.7 0.35 13

Gender F(2,121) = 6.56 p = 0.000*

Men 4.45 6 2.35 0.82* 0.6 84
Women 2.82 6 1.12 0.5 0.18 7
Both 2.62 6 1.94 0.36 0.27 26

Sport level F(3,121) = 5.26 p = 0.001*

International 5.20 6 0.56 1.22* 0.13 2
National 3.22 6 1.65 0.55 0.4 18
Regional 3.62 6 2.77 0.47 0.32 32
No athletes 4.28 6 2.30 0.94 0.73 44

Sport activity F(10,121) = 0.75 p = 0.68

Track and field 4.22 6 2.69 0.46 0.34 6
Volleyball 4.27 6 1.49 0.64 0.24 8
Basket 3.68 6 2.56 0.76 0.63 9
Basket + volleyball 3.46 6 0.73 0.63 0.12 8
Body building 4.47 6 3.51 0.73 0.49 14
Rowing 2.15 6 0.07 0.31 0.11 4
Aerobics + body building 1.60 6 2.25 0.86 0.43 3
Swimming 4.12 6 2.36 0.46 0.19 7
Soccer 2.66 6 0.75 0.51 0.18 5
Physical education 4.93 6 1.93 0.84 0.52 35
American football 0.60 6 0.01 0 — 1
*p , 0.05; ES = effect size.

consumption and higher power output, and they require The results show similar ESs for various sport activities.
high levels of coordination. These features are essential Each sport has its own characteristics, and therefore specific
aspects of top-level athletes and optimal performance. plyometric training exercises have been applied. This
An interesting finding in this study is that men demon- confirms previous suggestions (81) that plyometric training
strated higher gains compared with women (Table 2). The should be performed in conditions very similar to compe-
reasons for this difference are not clear. It could be suggested tition to achieve sport-specific gains.
that men demonstrate higher power output and better In the present study, VJH improvements are not higher
coordination than women. However, the large difference in when plyometrics are combined with other types of exercise
sample sizes between men and women and the small number (Table 3). This emphasizes the unique characteristics of
of ESs available may account for this observation. plyometric training in terms of improving VJH. However, it

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Plyometric Training: A Meta-Analysis

TABLE 3. Analysis of variance results on the differences of effect size (ES) between various elements of plyometric training
independent variables of program elements.

Program exercises

Independent variables Average (cm) 6 SD F Level ES SD n

Combination with other types of exercise F(5,121) = 0.318 p = 0.926

Plyometric 3.74 6 2.29 0.68 0.51 78
Plyometric + resistance force 4.37 6 2.45 0.76 0.63 17
Plyometric + electrostimulation 6.25 6 1.48 0.94 0.19 3
Plyometric + aerobic exercises 3.77 6 3.76 0.75 0.29 4
Plyometric + flexibility 3.82 6 0.71 0.69 0.1 4
Plyometric in water 4.35 6 0.91 0.33 0.32 3

Intensity of session F(2,111) = 12.79 p = 0.000*

High 5.07 6 2.93 1.22* 0.73 21
Moderate 3.90 6 1.78 0.57 0.29 47
Low 3.18 6 2.18 0.56 0.4 36
Type of plyometric exercises F(6,104) = 5.79 p = 0.000*
Combined 3.23 6 2.56 0.56 0.71 18
SJ 3.33 6 2.24 0.54 0.22 9
CMJ 2.91 6 1.05 0.4 0.17 7
DJ 3.97 6 2.35 0.66 0.43 45
SJ + DJ 2.60 6 0.56 0.47 0.34 2
CMJ + DJ 4.41 6 1.89 0.66 0.19 11
SJ + CMJ + DJ 5.96 6 2.00 1.46* 0.38 11

Resistance F(2,111) = 0.929 p = 0.45

Added weight 3.71 6 0.78 0.84 0.43 16
Hydraulic machines 3.00 6 0.98 0.38 0.17 2
Weightless 3.94 6 2.49 0.67 0.53 86
*p , 0.05. SJ = squat jump; CMJ = countermovement jump; DJ = drop jump; Ply = plyometric.

should be mentioned that when plyometrics were combined phase, whereas a CMJ involves an eccentric and concentric
with electrostimulation, higher ESs were observed. phase (15). The results of our study support these
The results of this investigation suggest that when the suggestions. Specifically, our data indicate that plyometrics
intensity is high during a session, there is a greater produce somewhat greater (although not significantly)
improvement in VJH performance (Table 3). The present positive effects in the fast SSC jumps (i.e., DJ) than in the
results show that a combination of SJs, CMJs, and DJs concentric-only jumps (i.e., SJ) or even the slow SSC jumps
demonstrates a higher ES compared with the use of a single (i.e., CMJ). Keeping the specificity of contraction-type
type of exercise (Table 3). It is well documented training in mind (i.e., SSC muscle function), greater positive
(17,54,65,81,89,99) that VJH is higher during DJs, followed effects of plyometric training on DJs and CMJs than on SJs
by CMJs and then SJs. This is mainly because of the different can be expected. However, to explain the difference in the
characteristics of movement and, thus, different use of SSC effects of plyometric training between DJs and CMJs, we
characteristics. For these reasons, the combination of various should take into account the biomechanical differences
exercises may result in higher VJH gains compared with the between the slow and fast SSC jumping exercises (12).
performance of each exercise alone. Several authors (12,99) have shown a substantial difference
The specific effects of plyometrics on VJH in the different in the mechanical output and jumping performance
types of vertical jumps could be of particular importance. It between slow SSC vertical jumps such as CMJs and fast
has been suggested that plyometric training is more effective SSC vertical jumps such as DJs. For these authors, the
in improving vertical jump performance in SSC jumps jumping technique (i.e., corporal position, movement
because it enhances the ability of subjects to use the elastic amplitude, and ground-contact time) represents one of the
and neural benefits of the SSC (95). This also could be most important factors to be considered when designing
attributed to differences in the use of SSC characteristics plyometric programs. However, in many of the studies
(17,54). An SJ mainly consists of a concentric (push-off ) included in this review, the researchers did not consider the
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Volume and frequency are very important parameters to

take into account for an optimum plyometric training
TABLE 4. Pearson correlation coefficients (r) program design. The results showed that training for 10
between various program elements and training weeks is more beneficial than similar programs of shorter
gains.
duration. Similarly, treatment with more than 20 sessions
Training program variables n r p increases VJH, whereas performance of more than 50 jumps
per session seemed to result in the most beneficial volume
Duration of session (min) 18 20.084
(Table 4). These figures are compatible with previous
Frequency of sessions 116 0.126
per week recommendations (30,35,89,98). However, in agreement
Program duration (wk) 109 0.452 0.01* with previous studies (78), a short-term plyometric training
Number of sessions 109 0.515 0.01* program with a moderate training frequency and volume of
Drop height (cm) 67 20.141 jumps (2 dwk21, 840 jumps) produced similar enhancements
Change in jump height 20 20.108
in jumping performance but greater training efficiency
(cm)
Number of jumps per 99 0.391 0.01* compared with high training frequency (4 dwk21, 1680
session jumps). Conceptually taken on the whole, the present data
Number of exercises 102 0.058 indicate that increasing the number of jumps in previously
per session moderately trained men does not seem to be the best
Rest between sets (s) 50 20.02
stimulus for improving vertical jump performance during
*p , 0.05. short-term training periods compared with high jump-
training volumes. These results also suggest that there is
a minimum training volume threshold over which further
increases in volume are no longer advantageous. It is also
likely that in previously physically active subjects within the
above-mentioned factors when describing their plyometric context of a short-term plyometric training cycle of 7 weeks,
programs. Therefore, it remains unclear whether the jumping jumping performance training can be improved only by 50%
technique is responsible for the somewhat greater gains or by a high-volume jumping program (e.g., 28 sessions of
observed in VJH. plyometric training ½1680 DJs
performed for 4 sessions per
Some research studies have shown that plyometric training week during a 7-week training period).
with additional weights (vests, bars on the back, etc.) The results indicate a nonsignificant ES for drop height on
demonstrated higher gains (11,35,40,41,52), whereas others VJH gains (Table 4). This agrees with previous studies
(21,34,50,60,63,66,70,72,82–84) have reported the opposite. (8,14,93) suggesting that the height of the jump is not crucial
The results of the meta-analysis indicate no differences for improving power in jump training. Therefore, jumping
among training conditions (Table 3). This suggests that using from a lower height allows performance of more repetitions
additional weights in training does not cause significant gains per session and improves trainability of jumping performance
in performance. It could be suggested, then, that training with with less injury risk.
additional loads might increase not only resistance but also In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that
contact time. However, the longer the contact time, the less plyometric training significantly improves VJH. The esti-
effective the SSC (13). Therefore, training effects using mated improvements in VJH as a result of plyometrics could
additional weights are not guaranteed. be considered as practically relevant—for example, an

TABLE 5. Analysis for independent variables of outcome measurement.

Outcome measurement

Independent variables Average (cm) 6 SD F Level ES SD n

Power test F(3,121) = 0.731 p = 0.572

Squat jump 4.51 6 2.41 0.79 0.52 19
Countermovement jump 4.27 6 2.23 0.74 0.43 40
Drop jump 4.21 6 2.00 0.71 0.48 18
Sargent jump 3.06 6 2.26 0.57 0.69 44

*p , 0.05. SJ = squat jump; CMJ = countermovement jump; DJ = drop jump; ES = effect size.

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Plyometric Training: A Meta-Analysis

improvement in VJH of .7% (i.e., 3.90 cm) could be of high 4. Anderst, WJ, Eksten, F, and Koceja, DM. Effects of plyometric and
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
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colostrums on anaerobic exercise performance and plasma insulin-
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