Hop Stabilization Training Improves Functional Movement Patterns and Quality of Life in Female Athletes With Chronic Ankle Instability

CONTEXT

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common consequence of a lateral ankle sprain. Sex differences in functional outcomes exist, but there is a lack of female-specific intervention studies. Hop stabilization training is effective in male athletes with CAI but has not been investigated in female athletes. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to describe the effect of hop stabilization exercises on functional movement patterns and patient-reported outcomes in female athletes with CAI. We also compared the current effect sizes with those observed in an all-male cohort following an identical intervention.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Fourteen female CAI participants completed hop stabilization training (age = 25.29 [5.86] y), and 14 female CAI participants were in the control group (age = 24.73 [6.97] y). Inclusion criteria were consistent with the International Ankle Consortium recommendations. The hop stabilization program consisted of three 20-minute sessions per week for 6 weeks. Sessions consisted of increasing foot-to-ground contacts each week until a taper in the final week. Exercise difficulty was also modified throughout the program. Functional movement patterns via the Functional Movement Screen and Fusionetics Scores, dorsiflexion range of motion, and select region-specific patient-reported outcomes were captured.

RESULTS

The hop training group (pre: 12.68 [1.32] cm, post: 13.42 [1.35] cm) had a significant improvement (P< .001) in dorsiflexion range of motion relative to the control group (pre: 13.62 [1.22] cm, post: 13.68 [1.16] cm). Hop training also significantly improved (P,<0.01) functional movement patterns and all patient-reported outcomes. Relative to an all-male cohort who previously underwent the same hop stabilization program, the current female cohort demonstrated larger effect sizes, but all 95% CIs overlapped.

CONCLUSIONS

A 6-week hop training program significantly improves patient-reported outcomes, dorsiflexion range of motion, and functional movement patterns in female athletes with CAI .

Comparing the Effects of Integrative Neuromuscular Training and Traditional Physical Fitness Training on Physical Performance Outcomes in Young Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Enhancing youth's physical fitness levels during childhood and adolescence through prior training programs can significantly optimize their athletic performance. The integrative neuromuscular training (INT) model is designed to improve neuromuscular function and prevent athletic injuries, and is superior to the traditional physical training method. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the effects of INT versus traditional physical fitness training (PT) on physical performance-related outcomes in young athletes.

METHODS

Six online databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, PsycINFO) searched from inception through 15 January 2024. Meta-analysis was performed when data were available from two or more trials. Physical performance-related outcomes were analyzed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The certainty of evidence and quality of the included studies were rated using the GRADE scale and the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool respectively.

RESULTS

Seventeen randomized controlled trials with 649 young athletes were included in the systematic review. Of those, 1 study showed a low risk of bias, 1 showed a high risk, and 15 showed some concerns. Compared to the PT group, INT significantly improved dynamic balance (MD = 7.29%, 95%CI 3.31 to 11.28, p < 0.001, I2 = 64.7%), static balance (SMD = -0.54, 95%CI -0.84 to -0.24, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), jumping performance (SMD = 0.53, 95%CI 0.32 to 0.73, p < 0.001, I2 = 0.0%), sprinting capacity (SMD = -0.76, 95%CI -1.13 to -0.39, p < 0.001, I2 = 57.6%) and maximal strength (SMD = 1.01, 95%CI 0.35 to 1.67, p = 0.002, I2 = 81.9%%). No significant between-group differences were identified for agility and flexibility.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that INT has the potential to be an effective training method to improve physical performance in young athletes. Moreover, further research is needed to determine the effects and associated doses for young athletes of different age groups.

Chronobiological Insights in Plyometric Jump Training: Optimizing Sport-Performance Adaptations for Volleyball Players

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of morning versus evening plyometric training (PT) on performance adaptations in male volleyball players.

METHODS

A total of 30 collegiate national-level young male volleyball players (age = 21.9 [2.1]; height = 186 [4.1]; body mass = 82.4 [4.6]) were randomly divided into 3 groups: morning PT (MPT), evening PT (EPT), and an active control group, each group consisting of 10 subjects. The players engaged in PT sessions twice weekly for a period of 6 weeks. The evaluation of biomotor abilities such as countermovement vertical jump, standing long jump, spike jump, block jump, 10-m sprint, T-test, sit and reach, and Y-balance test took place in the morning and evening before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

Both the MPT and EPT groups indicated significant (P < .05) improvements in all biomotor abilities from pretraining to posttraining during both the morning and evening testing sessions. Furthermore, the MPT group displayed greater adaptive responses in the vertical jump (P = .001), standing long jump (P = .023), and Y-balance test (P ≤ .01) compared to the EPT group. Time-of-day fluctuations were the same between the MPT and EPT groups at the pretest. Conversely, EPT demonstrated significantly more daytime variations than MPT in the jump, sprint, and balance tests at postintervention (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Engaging in PT at specific times of the day has a significant impact on biomotor ability adaptations, with a focus on morning being more favorable than the evening for achieving greater gains in jump and balance performance of volleyball players.

Increased Salivary BDNF and Improved Fundamental Motor Skills in Children Following a 3-Month Integrated Neuromuscular Training in Primary School

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein involved in synaptic transmission and neuronal plasticity, which underlie the processes of learning and memory formation. Acute exercise and exercise training increase BDNF concentration. We aimed to evaluate the effects of a 3-month integrated neuromuscular training (INT) on salivary BDNF concentration and the mastery of fundamental motor skills in school-aged children. An additional goal was to explore the associations between potential changes in BDNF and fundamental motor skills. Sixty-seven primary school-aged children were randomly allocated to control (N = 32; 7.52 ± 0.31 y) or INT groups (N = 35; 7.56 ± 0.29 y). A 3-month INT was applied during the warm-up of physical education (PE) classes, twice weekly. Salivary BDNF was measured using a sandwich-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the mastery of fundamental motor skills was assessed using the CAMSA test, at baseline and after 3 months. The children in the INT group, as compared to the children in the control group, exhibited higher salivary BDNF (F = 8.865; p = 0.004), higher scores for sidestep (F = 13.240, p = 0.001), 1-foot hop (F = 11.684, p = 0.001), kick (F = 4.010, p = 0.050), the sum of locomotor skills (F = 18.799, p < 0.0001), and the sum of control and manipulative skills (F = 8.151, p = 0.006), as well as the total sum of fundamental motor skills (F = 11.266, p = 0.001) after the 3 months. Interestingly, the increase in salivary BDNF concentration after the 3-month INT was associated with an improvement in locomotor skills (beta = 0.385; p = 0.039; adjusted R2 = 0.088) and the total improvement in fundamental motor skills (beta = 0.428; p = 0.020; adjusted R2 = 0.124). A school-based 3-month INT increased salivary BDNF and improved the mastery of fundamental motor skills in children, highlighting the positive impact of this intervention for a pediatric population.

Effects of neuromuscular training on dynamic balance ability in athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the effects of neuromuscular training (NMT) on dynamic balance in healthy athletes through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods

Searches on six databases for randomized controlled trials examining the impact of NMT on athletes' balance ability. The search period extended from the inception of the database to March 16, 2024, languages are limited to Chinese and English. Review Manager 5.1 was used for literature quality assessment and data analysis. Stata 15.0 software was used for assessing publication bias, employing the clipping method, and conducting sensitivity analysis. The Grading of recommendations assessment development and evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the certainty of evidence. Effect size (ES) was used to evaluate the impact effect of the results.

Results

(1) Meta-analysis: A total of 7 papers met the inclusion criteria, and the meta-analysis indicated that NMT had a positive impact on the dynamic balance ability of the right (SMD = 0.74) and left (SMD = 0.70) lower limb of athletes, and a statistically significant difference was observed (p < 0.01). Subgroup analysis revealed that NMT did not have a positive effect (p > 0.05) on the right anterior (SMD = 0.35); However, it had a positive effect (p < 0.05) on the right posteromedial (SMD = 1.22), right posterolateral (SMD = 0.82), right composite score (SMD = 0.79), left anterior (SMD = 0.38), left posteromedial (SMD = 1.19), left posterolateral (SMD = 0.57) and left composite score (SMD = 0.86). (2) Reporting bias: Funnel plot indicated evidence of publication bias, but there was no significant asymmetry in the funnel plot after trimming and filling. The results were not reversed, indicating the robustness of the combined results. (3) Sensitivity analysis: The results of the sensitivity analysis suggest that the data in this meta-analysis are relatively stable and credible. (4) Grading the evidence: Based on GRADE scale the certainty of evidence from the included studies was determined to be moderate.

Conclusion

Neuromuscular training can enhance the dynamic balance ability of athletes on both the left and right sides. Therefore, neuromuscular training is an effective method for enhancing the unilateral dynamic balance ability of athletes.

Effect of Combined Training With Balance, Strength, and Plyometrics on Physical Performance in Male Sprint Athletes With Intellectual Disabilities

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face unique challenges in physical capabilities, making traditional training methods less effective for their specific needs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of combining balance, plyometric, and strength (CBPS) training with sprint training on physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities. Twenty-seven participants were randomly assigned to either a CBPS group or a control group that only maintained their regular sprint training. Participants underwent pre- and posttraining tests, including measures of balance, jumping, agility, and sprinting ability. The results showed that the CBPS group demonstrated significant improvements (p < .05) in one-leg stance, crossover-hop jump, squat jump, countermovement jump, and 10- and 30-m sprint at posttraining compared with pretraining. CBPS training combined with sprinting significantly improves physical performance in male athletes with intellectual disabilities, suggesting implications for tailored training programs to enhance their physical fitness and overall health.

Impact of neuromuscular training including balance, strength and plyometric exercises on static and dynamic balance in high-level male runners with mild intellectual disability

BACKGROUND

This study aims to investigate the impact of neuromuscular training (NMT) on static and dynamic postural balance (PB) among high-level male runners with intellectual disability.

METHOD

Twenty-seven runners were randomly assigned to a NMT group and a control group who maintained their conventional training. Static and dynamic PB were assessed using the centre of pressure (CoP) excursions (in bipedal and unipedal stances under open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE) conditions) and the star excursion balance test (SEBT), respectively, at pre-training and post-training.

RESULTS

The NMT group showed significantly (p < 0.05) decreased CoP values and increased SEBT scores at post-training compared to pre-training. The switch from OE to CE did not affect static PB in the bipedal stance, only in the NMT group.

CONCLUSIONS

The NMT was effective in improving static and dynamic PB in runners with intellectual disability. The NMT could reduce visual dependency.

Effectiveness of a specific strength program of the gluteus maximus muscle to improve dynamic postural control in female basketball players. A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Basketball is a team sport in which players perform multidirectional movements, jumps and landings, experiencing abrupt accelerations and decelerations and numerous changes of rhythm. In this sport, speed and intensity are two key factors that are associated with an increased risk of injury. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to determine the effectiveness of a specific gluteus maximus strength programme as preventive work for young female basketball players, to improve dynamic postural stability and to observe its impact in the rate of lower limb injuries, vertical jump, dynamic knee valgus and pain.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is effective a strength programme to improve dynamic postural stability, vertical jump and dynamic valgus in female basketball players?

METHODS

A hundred and thirteen female basketball players that play in professional clubs were recruited, reaching the final stage 92 (46 per group). One group (CG) received conventional injury prevention training while the experimental group (EG) added to the conventional team prevention program, a gluteus maximus strength programme of 5 months composed of 4 exercises/2 days per week/2 sets of 10 repetitions per leg.

RESULTS

The total injury incidence decreased from 0.33 to 0.16 cases (control group pre=0.43 to post=0.14 cases, EG pre=022 to post=0.19). The EG improved overall (p = 0.000), posterior (p = 0.001), posteromedial (p = 0.001) and posterolateral (p = 0.000) dynamic stability of the right leg; anterior (p = 0.024), medial (p = 0.07) and posteromedial (p = 0.01) of the left leg. Both groups improved vertical jump (GC: p = 0.045 and GE: p = 0.000). There was no significant improvement in pain or valgus.

SIGNIFICANCE

This strength programme is effective in improving dynamic stability especially of the dominant leg and jump height.

Effects of Sand Surface Plyometric and Sprint Training on Physical and Technical Skill Performance in Beach Handball Players

This study compared the effects of a 6-week combined plyometric and sprint-training program on the sand to regular preseason training, on the athletic performance and technical actions of beach handball (BH) players. Athletes were randomly assigned either to the control (CG, n = 12; BH training only) or the experimental group (EG, n = 12; plyometric + sprint + BH training). Assessments conducted before and after the training period included a squat jump, a countermovement jump, the Abalakov jump, a 15-m sprint, a modified Course-Navette endurance test, and four sport-specific BH throwing speed tests: a standing penalty throw, a 3-step running throw, a jump throw, and a 360º jump throw. The training intervention enhanced all athletic performance measures (all, p < 0.05). In contrast, the only improvement in the CG included endurance performance (p< 0.05). Significant time-group differences were noted in favor of the EG compared to the CG (p< 0.05) in the squat jump, the countermovement jump, the Abalakov jump, the jump throw velocity and 360º jump throw velocity. In conclusion, compared to BH regular training, 6 weeks of sand surface preseason plyometric and sprint training combined with regular BH training induced greater improvements in athletic performance and specific skills in BH players.

Positive Effects of Plyometric vs. Eccentric-Overload Training on Performance in Young Male Handball Players

This study aimed to compare the effects of two 8-week in-season strength-training programs on handball players' physical and technical parameters. Thirty-six male athletes were randomly separated into three groups: a control group (n = 12), a plyometric training group (PG, n = 12), and an eccentric-overload training group (EG, n = 12). The PG and EG performed upper- and lower-limb plyometric or eccentric-overload exercises, respectively, three times per week. Control groups performed regular handball training. The athletes were assessed for counter movement jump (CMJ) and Abalakov vertical jump (ABK) height, 15 m linear sprint time, handball-throwing speed (i.e., penalty throw; 3-step running throw; jump throw), and cardiorespiratory endurance through the 20 m shuttle-run test. Heart rate and blood lactate were measured at the end of the endurance test. No baseline differences were noted for dependent variables between groups. The session rating of perceived exertion was similar between the intervention groups (PG = 361 ± 12.2 AU; EG = 370 ± 13.3 AU). The ANOVA revealed significant (p < 0.05; Δ = 5-9%; effect size (ES) = 0.45-1.96). Similar improvements for experimental groups compared to the control group for CMJ, ABK jump, penalty throw, 3-step running throw, and jump throw. However, interventions did not affect 15 m, cardiorespiratory endurance, nor heart rate or blood lactate after the endurance test. In conclusion, an 8-week handball intervention by performing plyometric or eccentric-overload training in-season improves the physical and technical parameters of male players when compared to regular handball practice.

Effects of plyometric vs. strength training on strength, sprint, and functional performance in soccer players: a randomized controlled trial

Plyometric training (PT) has been shown to have numerous benefits and few harmful effects. This study aimed to compare the effects of PT vs. strength training on muscle strength, sprint, and lower limb functional performance in soccer players. Ninety participants (mean age 22.5 years) were equally and randomly divided into three groups: a plyometric training group (PTG; n = 30), a strength training group (STG; n = 30), and a control group (CG; n = 30). In PTG: bounding, hurdling, and drop jumping exercises were performed. In STG: isometric exercises of knee extension (at 60º knee flexion), quadriceps (in supine), hip adductors (in crook lying), and straight leg raise were performed. In CG: no specific training was given. All interventions were performed for eight weeks. Isometric strength (IS), sprint (ST), and single-leg triple hop (SLTH) tests were outcome measures. The wilcoxon signed ranks test was used for with-in-group analysis, and Kruskal Wallis and Mann-Whitney u tests were used for between-group analyses. In PTG: in comparison to a baseline measurement, IS increased by 8.83% (p < 0.05), ST decreased by 20.14% (p < 0.05), and SLTH increased by 7.78% (p < 0.05). In STG: IS increased by 15.76% (p < 0.05), ST decreased by 30.26% (p < 0.05), and SLTH increased by 12.41% (p < 0.05). In CG: IS increased by 5.72% (p < 0.05), ST decreased by 15.54% (p < 0.05), and SLTH increased by 4.41% (p < 0.05). The greatest improvements were observed in STG, followed by PTG and CG. Strength training was found to be more effective than PT in improving muscle strength, sprint, and lower limb functional performance in male soccer players.

Effects of Surface-Type Plyometric Training on Physical Fitness in Schoolchildren of Both Sexes: A Randomized Controlled Intervention

Plyometric training (PT) has been found to be effective for children’s fitness. However, no study has examined the effects of sex on physical fitness adaptations from surface-type PT in children. This study compared the effects of short-term surface-type PT (firm vs. sand) on the physical fitness of schoolchildren of both sexes. Sixty girls (age = 10.00 ± 1.15 years) and sixty boys (age = 10.02 ± 1.12 years) participated in a short-term (4 weeks), randomized and parallel PT design with pre-to-post measurements. Children were divided into two experimental groups (firm group: PT performed on a clay surface, 20 boys and 20 girls; sand group: PT performed on a dry surface of 20 cm deep sand, 20 boys and 20 girls) and a control group (CG, 20 boys and 20 girls). Squat jump, standing long jump, 20 m sprint, 5-10-5 shuttle, dynamic balance, and maximal aerobic velocity were measured at baseline and after intervention. Both experimental groups showed greater pre-post changes in all assessed variables than the CG (p < 0.0001). No significant differences in pre-post changes were observed relative to surface type or sex (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that a twice-weekly PT program induced physical fitness improvements, which may have transfer to health status during childhood. Additionally, surface type and sex did not affect the training-induced changes in physical fitness.

Effects of school-based neuromuscular training on fundamental movement skills and physical fitness in children: a systematic review

Objectives

The primary purpose of this review was to clarify the effects of school-based integrated neuromuscular training (INT) on fundamental movement skills and physical fitness in children. The secondary purpose was to examine whether school-based INT intervention is superior to physical education (PE) intervention in enhancing motor skills and fitness.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in four electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The last search was performed on December 21, 2021, and was limited to the English language, human species, and peer reviewed journals. Randomized controlled trials and cluster randomized controlled trials that examine the effects of school-based INT on motor skills and/or fitness in healthy children who were aged up to 14 years old were included. Moreover, studies included in this study should compare school-based INT-induced adaptions with those generated by PE interventions. Studies that involve athletic children and additional exercise training were excluded. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the quality of the study.

Results

Of 1,026 studies identified, seven original trials that meet the inclusion criteria were included in this review. Based on the PEDro scale, the PEDro score of seven studies was between six and eight points with a mean score of 5.29. Among the seven studies included in this study, four studies assessed physical fitness including muscular fitness (n = 4), speed (n = 3), endurance (n = 2), and flexibility (n = 2). Three studies examined the effects of INT on postural control and three studies explored its effects on motor skills. Concerning movement competence, significant and greater improvements in postural control and fundamental motor skills were observed following school-based INT interventions compared to PE intervention in two and three studies, respectively. Regarding physical fitness, neuromuscular training significantly increased muscular fitness, speed, endurance, flexibility in three, two, one, and one studies, respectively. However, only greater improvements in muscle fitness were observed in school-based INT group compared to PE group. The main limitations of this review were the lack of descriptions of training intensity and volume and the low methodological quality of the included studies.

Conclusion

This review provides evidence that school-based neuromuscular training programs are superior to PE lessons in improving postural control, fundamental motor skills and muscular strength. Therefore, INT could be incorporated into traditional physical education classes in school. Trial registration number: CRD42022297349.

Effect of Pre-Season Training on Physiological and Biochemical Indices in Basketball Players—A Systematic Review

The pre-season period in basketball includes all the physiological attributes that the players need to work on and develop, in order to sustain a full season workload. The monitoring of the effectiveness of pre-season training is based on a variety of biochemical and physiological indices; however, it is still unclear how pre-season training affects those markers. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effects of pre-season training on biochemical and physiological markers. A search was performed in five large scientific databases (Pubmed (Medline), Scopus, Science-Direct, Sport-Discus (EBSCO), Semantic Scholar) and produced 7081 results, which after removing duplicates and applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulted in 28 published scientific articles being included in this review. The most important findings suggested that the majority of the studies used a 6- or an 8-week pre-season training protocol, because these protocols have shown significant positive effects over the years. In addition, the plyometric training protocols that were used by many studies have been found to be beneficial for basketball athletes for many physiological parameters. Furthermore, the evaluation of biochemical markers can be a very useful tool in monitoring and managing fatigue, which is an essential part of modifying the training process, in order to maximize performance.

A Systematic Review on Fitness Testing in Adult Male Basketball Players: Tests Adopted, Characteristics Reported and Recommendations for Practice

Background

As basketball match-play requires players to possess a wide range of physical characteristics, many tests have been introduced in the literature to identify talent and quantify fitness in various samples of players. However, a synthesis of the literature to identify the most frequently used tests, outcome variables, and normative values for basketball-related physical characteristics in adult male basketball players is yet to be conducted.

Objective

The primary objectives of this systematic review are to (1) identify tests and outcome variables used to assess physical characteristics in adult male basketball players across all competition levels, (2) report a summary of anthropometric, muscular power, linear speed, change-of-direction speed, agility, strength, anaerobic capacity, and aerobic capacity in adult male basketball players based on playing position and competition level, and (3) introduce a framework outlining recommended testing approaches to quantify physical characteristics in adult male basketball players.

Methods

A systematic review of MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify relevant studies. To be eligible for inclusion, studies were required to: (1) be original research articles; (2) be published in a peer-reviewed journal; (3) have full-text versions available in the English language; and (4) include the primary aim of reporting tests used and/or the physical characteristics of adult (i.e., ≥ 18 years of age) male basketball players. Additionally, data from the top 10 draft picks who participated in the National Basketball Association combined from 2011–12 to 2020–21 were extracted from the official league website to highlight the physical characteristics of elite 19- to 24-year-old basketball players.

Results

A total of 1684 studies were identified, with 375 being duplicates. Consequently, the titles and abstracts of 1309 studies were screened and 231 studies were eligible for full-text review. The reference list of each study was searched, with a further 59 studies identified as eligible for review. After full-text screening, 137 studies identified tests, while 114 studies reported physical characteristics in adult male basketball players.

Conclusions

Physical characteristics reported indicate a wide range of abilities are present across playing competitions. The tests and outcome variables reported in the literature highlight the multitude of tests currently being used. Because there are no accepted international standards for physical assessment of basketball players, establishing normative data is challenging. Therefore, future testing should involve repeatable protocols that are standardised and provide outcomes that can be monitored across time. Recommendations for testing batteries in adult male basketball players are provided so improved interpretation of data can occur.

Clinical Trial Registration

This review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews and allocated registration number CRD42020187151 on 28 April, 2020.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40279-021-01626-3.

Center of pressure-based postural sway differences on parallel and single leg stance in Olympic deaf basketball and volleyball players

In sports such as basketball and volleyball, loss of balance due to the inability to maintain body stability and lack of postural control adversely affect athletic performance. Deaf athletes appear to struggle with balance and postural stability problems. The purpose of this study was to examine postural sway values in parallel and single leg stance of Olympic deaf basketball and volleyball players and reveal differences between the branches. Twenty-three male athletes from the Turkish national deaf basketball (n=11) and volleyball (n=12) teams participated in the study. After anthropometric measurements, the subjects completed postural sway (PS) tests in parallel/single leg stances with open eyes and closed eyes on a force plate. PS parameters (sway path, velocity, and area) obtained from the device software were used for the statistical analysis. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare differences in PS parameters between basketball and volleyball players, and the alpha value was accepted as 0.05. Volleyball players had significantly better results in parallel stance and dominant leg PS values than basketball players (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups in nondominant leg PS values (P>0.05). We think that proprioceptive and vestibular system enhancing training practices to be performed with stability exercises will be beneficial in terms of both promoting functional stability and interlimb coordination. Trainers and strength coaches should be aware of differences in the postural control mechanism of deaf athletes.

Effects of Plyometric Jump Training on Balance Performance in Healthy Participants: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis

Background: Postural balance represents a fundamental movement skill for the successful performance of everyday and sport-related activities. There is ample evidence on the effectiveness of balance training on balance performance in athletic and non-athletic population. However, less is known on potential transfer effects of other training types, such as plyometric jump training (PJT) on measures of balance. Given that PJT is a highly dynamic exercise mode with various forms of jump-landing tasks, high levels of postural control are needed to successfully perform PJT exercises. Accordingly, PJT has the potential to not only improve measures of muscle strength and power but also balance. Objective: To systematically review and synthetize evidence from randomized and non-randomized controlled trials regarding the effects of PJT on measures of balance in apparently healthy participants. Methods: Systematic literature searches were performed in the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS. A PICOS approach was applied to define inclusion criteria, (i) apparently healthy participants, with no restrictions on their fitness level, sex, or age, (ii) a PJT program, (iii) active controls (any sport-related activity) or specific active controls (a specific exercise type such as balance training), (iv) assessment of dynamic, static balance pre- and post-PJT, (v) randomized controlled trials and controlled trials. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. This meta-analysis was computed using the inverse variance random-effects model. The significance level was set at p <0.05. Results: The initial search retrieved 8,251 plus 23 records identified through other sources. Forty-two articles met our inclusion criteria for qualitative and 38 for quantitative analysis (1,806 participants [990 males, 816 females], age range 9-63 years). PJT interventions lasted between 4 and 36 weeks. The median PEDro score was 6 and no study had low methodological quality (≤3). The analysis revealed significant small effects of PJT on overall (dynamic and static) balance (ES = 0.46; 95% CI = 0.32-0.61; p < 0.001), dynamic (e.g., Y-balance test) balance (ES = 0.50; 95% CI = 0.30-0.71; p < 0.001), and static (e.g., flamingo balance test) balance (ES = 0.49; 95% CI = 0.31-0.67; p < 0.001). The moderator analyses revealed that sex and/or age did not moderate balance performance outcomes. When PJT was compared to specific active controls (i.e., participants undergoing balance training, whole body vibration training, resistance training), both PJT and alternative training methods showed similar effects on overall (dynamic and static) balance (p = 0.534). Specifically, when PJT was compared to balance training, both training types showed similar effects on overall (dynamic and static) balance (p = 0.514). Conclusion: Compared to active controls, PJT showed small effects on overall balance, dynamic and static balance. Additionally, PJT produced similar balance improvements compared to other training types (i.e., balance training). Although PJT is widely used in athletic and recreational sport settings to improve athletes' physical fitness (e.g., jumping; sprinting), our systematic review with meta-analysis is novel in as much as it indicates that PJT also improves balance performance. The observed PJT-related balance enhancements were irrespective of sex and participants' age. Therefore, PJT appears to be an adequate training regime to improve balance in both, athletic and recreational settings.

Acute Effects of Different Plyometric and Strength Exercises on Balance Performance in Youth Weightlifters

Background: High-intensity muscle actions have the potential to temporarily improve the performance which has been denoted as postactivation performance enhancement. Objectives: This study determined the acute effects of different stretch-shortening (fast vs. low) and strength (dynamic vs. isometric) exercises executed during one training session on subsequent balance performance in youth weightlifters. Materials and Methods: Sixteen male and female young weightlifters, aged 11.3±0.6years, performed four strength exercise conditions in randomized order, including dynamic strength (DYN; 3 sets of 3 repetitions of 10 RM) and isometric strength exercises (ISOM; 3 sets of maintaining 3s of 10 RM of back-squat), as well as fast (FSSC; 3 sets of 3 repetitions of 20-cm drop-jumps) and slow (SSSC; 3 sets of 3 hurdle jumps over a 20-cm obstacle) stretch-shortening cycle protocols. Balance performance was tested before and after each of the four exercise conditions in bipedal stance on an unstable surface (i.e., BOSU ball with flat side facing up) using two dependent variables, i.e., center of pressure surface area (CoP SA) and velocity (CoP V). Results: There was a significant effect of time on CoP SA and CoP V [F(1,60)=54.37, d=1.88, p<0.0001; F(1,60)=9.07, d=0.77, p=0.003]. In addition, a statistically significant effect of condition on CoP SA and CoP V [F(3,60)=11.81, d=1.53, p<0.0001; F(3,60)=7.36, d=1.21, p=0.0003] was observed. Statistically significant condition-by-time interactions were found for the balance parameters CoP SA (p<0.003, d=0.54) and CoP V (p<0.002, d=0.70). Specific to contrast analysis, all specified hypotheses were tested and demonstrated that FSSC yielded significantly greater improvements than all other conditions in CoP SA and CoP V [p<0.0001 (d=1.55); p=0.0004 (d=1.19), respectively]. In addition, FSSC yielded significantly greater improvements compared with the two conditions for both balance parameters [p<0.0001 (d=2.03); p<0.0001 (d=1.45)]. Conclusion: Fast stretch-shortening cycle exercises appear to be more effective to improve short-term balance performance in young weightlifters. Due to the importance of balance for overall competitive achievement in weightlifting, it is recommended that young weightlifters implement dynamic plyometric exercises in the fast stretch-shortening cycle during the warm-up to improve their balance performance.

The Effect of Combining Plyometrics Exercises and Balance Exercises in Improving Dynamic Balance among Female College Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Plyometrics and balance exercises have been shown to reduce lower limb injury incidence. The effects of combining these exercises on dynamic balance have not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of plyometrics and balance exercises and a combination of both exercises on postural stability among female athletes compared to those who did not perform any specific exercise (control).

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Sports Medicine Laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred female athletes aged 21.9±2.4 years were randomly assigned to a plyometrics exercises group (n = 50), a balance exercises group (n = 50), a combination of both exercises group (n = 50), or a control group (n = 50). One hundred seventy-nine female college athletes completed the study.

INTERVENTIONS

Plyometrics exercises, balance exercises and a combination of both exercises.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Limits of stability, which was assessed using the Biodex Stability System to assess the performance of the dynamic balance. It was measured pre and post-intervention after six weeks.

RESULTS

There were no differences in baseline data between groups (p = .557). All groups showed significant improvements in limits of stability (p < .001). The most marked improvement in the limits of stability was shown in the combination group compared to the control group (MD = 4.1 %, 95% CI [2.8, 5.3], p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Combining plyometrics and balance exercises significantly increases the dynamic balance performance post-intervention among female athletes compared to the control group. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The Effects of Inter-Set Recovery Time on Explosive Power, Electromyography Activity, and Tissue Oxygenation during Plyometric Training

Performing continuous sets to failure is fatiguing during the plyometric training. Cluster sets have been used to redistribute total rest time to create short frequent sets so that muscle fatigue can be avoided. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of inter-set recovery time on lower extremity explosive power, neuromuscular activity, and tissue oxygenation during plyometric exercise and recovery. An integrated assessment of explosive power, muscle electrical activity, and tissue oxygenation was adopted in the present study to help understand local muscle metabolism and fatigue during plyometric exercise and recovery. Ten university male basketball players participated in this study. Subjects performed 4 groups of exercise, each group comprised of 3 sets of jumps: 1, 2, 3, or 5 min. Surface electromyography (sEMG) signals were collected from 9 lower extremity muscles; near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was recorded on vastus lateralis; mechanical data during plyometric exercise were collected from a force plate. No significant differences among sets and among groups were found regarding explosive power, jump height, EMG intensity, mean power frequency, the rate of tissue saturation index, and HbO2 changes between baseline and recovery. The current study has shown no muscular fatigue induced during the 4 groups of exercise. The results of this study may help inform recommendations concerning the recovery time during plyometric exercises at low loads (30% 1 RM).

The Effects of a 10-Week Neuromuscular Training on Postural Control in Elite Youth Competitive Ballroom Dancers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of a 10-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program on the postural control of elite youth competitive ballroom dancers. Forty-two dancers (21 couples) were randomly assigned to either the NMT group (n = 22) or the control group (CG; n = 20). Participants in NMT underwent a three-sessions-per-week NMT program for 10 weeks. Testing at baseline and after the 10 weeks intervention included the Y-balance test (YBT) and Modified-Balance Error Scoring System (M-BESS). Results of YBT indicated that NMT participants demonstrated increased reach in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions for the right and left lower limb, whereas no significant change was found in the anterior direction for both limbs. Results of Modified-Balance Error Scoring System (M-BESS) showed that NMT participants displayed significantly decreased errors of the double-leg floor (p = 0.026), single-leg foam (p = 0.010), double-leg foam (p = 0.003), tandem floor (p = 0.031), and tandem foam (p = 0.038), while no significant change was found in single-leg floor performance (p = 0.476). CG participants did not exhibit any significant change during the 10-week period. In summary, the study affirmed that the 10-week NMT program enhanced the postural control performance of youth ballroom dancers and showed effects on ballroom dance-specific performance and lower-limb injury prevention. The results suggest that NMT may be a valuable addition to ballroom dance training regimens.

Effects of neuromuscular training on psychomotor development and active joint position sense in school children

As psychomotor development occurs in a specific social context, the environment in which a child is reared is important. The randomized study involved forty-five school children between 8 and 10 years. They were assigned to a control group (n = 23) and a neuromuscular training group (n = 22). A neuromuscular intervention for six weeks, on two nonconsecutive days, and in a circuit with 30-second stations was performed. The psychomotor development was evaluated through a psychomotor battery and the active joint position sense through the positional error. In the control group, the positional error decreased significantly in the shoulder (p < 0.001) and hip (p < 0.001), while the scores of motor function increased significantly which included balance (p < 0.001), spatio-temporal structuring (p = 0.022), global praxia (p = 0.002), and fine praxia (p = 0.003). In the neuromuscular training group, the positional error decreased significantly in the shoulder (p = 0.015), elbow (p = 0.015), wrist (p < 0.001), hip (p < 0.001), knee (p < 0.001), and ankle (p < 0.001), while the motor function scores increased significantly which included tonicity (p < 0.001), balance (p < 0.001), notion of the body (p < 0.001), spatio-temporal structuring (p < 0.001), global praxia (p < 0.001), and fine praxia (p < 0.001). A six-week neuromuscular training improved active joint position sense and psychomotor development in children.

Effects of Resistance Exercise on Balance Ability: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

With this systematic review, we explored whether resistance exercise (RE) could be used to improve balance in addition to muscular strength and power. Scientific databases were searched for randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of RE on the performance of various balance tests. Studies were considered if they involved healthy participants of any age group. Thirteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed moderate to large improvements in balance ability following RE in older adults, as reflected in functional reach test (mean difference (MD): +4.22 cm, p < 0.001), single-leg standing test (MD: +1.9-37.6 s, p < 0.001) and timed-up-and-go test (MD: -0.55 s; p = 0.002). Moderate to large improvements following RE were seen in adults in star excursion balance test (MD: +4.09-5.17 cm; p = 0.001-0.020), but not for Y-balance test score (MD: +4.94%, p = 0.14). The results implicate that RE interventions may significantly improve balance ability in adults and older adults. Therefore, RE could be used to improve balance in these populations, while further studies are needed to investigate children populations. Performing RE alone could be a time-efficient compromise for individuals who are unwilling or unable to perform large volumes of exercise or different exercise modalities.

Dynamic Balance in Athletes With Intellectual Disability: Effect of Dynamic Stretching and Plyometric Warm-Ups

CONTEXT

Athletes with intellectual disability (ID) have a high risk of injury while participating in various sports. Warm-up (WU) is the most preventive measure to reduce injuries in sports.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of dynamic stretching WU (DS-WU) and plyometric WU (PL-WU) on dynamic balance in athletes with ID.

DESIGN

Crossover study.

SETTING

Research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 12 athletes with ID (age 24.5 [3.22] y, height 165.7 [8.4] cm, weight 61.5 [7.1] kg, intelligence quotient 61.1 [3.5]).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Dynamic balance was assessed using the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) at pre-WU, post-WU, and 15 minutes post-WU for both the DS-WU and the PL-WU. A 2-way analysis of variance (3 sessions × 2 WU methods) with repeated-measures was used in this study.

RESULTS

Following the DS-WU, participants demonstrated significant improvements in the SEBT composite score post-WU (89.12% [5.54%] vs 87.04% [5.35%]; P < .01) and at 15 minutes post-WU (89.55% [5.28%] vs 87.04%, P < .01) compared with pre-WU. However, no significant difference between these two post-WU scores (post-WU and 15 min post-WU) was found. For the PL-WU, participants demonstrated a significant decrease in the SEBT composite score at post-WU (85.95% [5.49%] vs 87.02% [5.73%]; P < .05); however, these scores increased significantly at 15 minutes post-WU (88.60% [5.42%] vs 87.02% [5.49%]; P < .05) compared with that at pre-WU. The SEBT composite scores are significantly higher in the DS-WU than in the PL-WU at both post-WU sessions (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Both DS-WU and PL-WU could improve dynamic balance and may be recommended as WUs in athletes with ID; however, particular caution should be exercised immediately after the PL-WU.

Effects of in Season Multi-Directional Plyometric Training on Vertical Jump Performance, Change of Direction Speed and Dynamic Postural Control in U-21 Soccer Players

The aim of the study was to assess the effects of multi-directional plyometric training (MPT) on vertical jump height, change of direction speed (CODS), and dynamic postural control (DPC) of soccer players under 21 year (U-21). Twenty-seven male soccer players were randomly allocated to either an experimental group (EG; n = 14; age: 19.0 ± 0.9 years) or a control group (CG; n = 13; age: 19.0 ± 0.7 years). The EG introduced 6 weeks MPT, 2 days per week into their in-season training, while CG continued training without change. Measurements of vertical jump height, CODS and DPC were completed at the beginning and end of the 6 week MPT. ANOVA demonstrated a significant group × time interaction for SJ (F = 6.03, p = 0.021), CMJ (F = 9.10, p = 0.006), and T-Test (F = 10.46, p = 0.002). The Bonferroni Post Hoc test demonstrated significant increase for the three tests in both group (EG and CG). For SJ (EG: p < 0.001; CG: p < 0.001), CMJ (EG: p < 0.001; CG: p = 0.005) and T-Test (EG: p < 0.001; CG: p = 0.02). For DPC on the dominant leg, there was a significant group × time interaction for four axes [anterior (F = 5.48, p = 0.028), antero-lateral (F = 4.82, p = 0.038), postero-lateral (F = 4.82, p = 0.038), and medial (F = 6.77, p = 0.015)]. The Bonferroni Post Hoc test demonstrated significant increase in EG (p < 0.001), but no significant change in CG in four axes (anterior, antero-lateral, postero-lateral and medial). Furthermore DPC on the non-dominant leg, there was a significant group × time interaction for three axes [lateral (F = 8.09, p = 0.009), postero-lateral (F = 11.92, p = 0.002), and medial (F = 5.84, p = 0.023)]. The Bonferroni Post Hoc test demonstrated significant increase in EG (p < 0.001), but no significant change in CG in three axes (lateral, postero-lateral, and medial). In conclusion, incorporating MPT into the in-season regimen of under 21 soccer players improved performance of various indices related to soccer activity (i.e., CMJ, CODS, and DPC). MPT has the potential to be appealing to coaches, as it requires little time while yielding valuable results in the physical preparation of soccer players.

Multidirectional Plyometric Training: Very Efficient Way to Improve Vertical Jump Performance, Change of Direction Performance and Dynamic Postural Control in Young Soccer Players

The aim of the study was to assess the effects of multidirectional plyometric training (MPT) on vertical jump height, change of direction performance (CODP), and dynamic postural control (DPC) in young soccer players. Twenty-eight young male soccer players were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG, n = 14; age: 11.8 ± 0.4 years) and a control group (CG, n = 14; age: 11.6 ± 0.5 years). The EG introduced 8-week MPT, two days per week into their in-season training, while CG continued training without change. Measurements of vertical jump height, CODP, and DPC were completed at the beginning and end of the 8-week MPT. A significant group × time interaction was observed for Squat-Jump (p < 0.05), for Counter-Movement Jump (p < 0.05), and for CODP test (p < 0.05). In addition, a significant group × time interaction was observed for DPC in seven axes for the dominant- (anterior, lateral, postero-lateral, posterior, postero-medial, medial, and antero-medial; p < 0.05 for all) and in seven axes for the non-dominant- (anterior, antero-lateral, lateral, posterior, postero-medial, medial and antero-medial; p < 0.05 for all) legs. The rest of the axes of both legs did not show any significant group × time interaction (p > 0.05). In conclusion, incorporating MPT into the in-season regimen of young male soccer players improved performance of various indices related to soccer activity (i.e., vertical jump height, CODP, and DPC). MPT has the potential to be appealing to coaches, as it requires little time while yielding valuable results in the physical preparation of young soccer players.

General versus sports-specific injury prevention programs in athletes: A systematic review on the effects on performance

INTRODUCTION

Injury prevention programs (IPPs) are an inherent part of training in recreational and professional sports. Providing performance-enhancing benefits in addition to injury prevention may help adjust coaches and athletes' attitudes towards implementation of injury prevention into daily routine. Conventional thinking by players and coaches alike seems to suggest that IPPs need to be specific to one's sport to allow for performance enhancement. The systematic literature review aims to firstly determine the IPPs nature of exercises and whether they are specific to the sport or based on general conditioning. Secondly, can they demonstrate whether general, sports-specific or even mixed IPPs improve key performance indicators with the aim to better facilitate long-term implementation of these programs?

METHODS

PubMed and Web of Science were electronically searched throughout March 2018. The inclusion criteria were randomized control trials, publication dates between Jan 2006 and Feb 2018, athletes (11-45 years), injury prevention programs and included predefined performance measures that could be categorized into balance, power, strength, speed/agility and endurance. The methodological quality of included articles was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration assessment tools.

RESULTS

Of 6619 initial findings, 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. In addition, reference lists unearthed a further 6 studies, making a total of 28. Nine studies used sports specific IPPs, eleven general and eight mixed prevention strategies. Overall, general programs ranged from 29-57% in their effectiveness across performance outcomes. Mixed IPPs improved in 80% balance outcomes but only 20-44% in others. Sports-specific programs led to larger scale improvements in balance (66%), power (83%), strength (75%), and speed/agility (62%).

CONCLUSION

Sports-specific IPPs have the strongest influence on most performance indices based on the significant improvement versus control groups. Other factors such as intensity, technical execution and compliance should be accounted for in future investigations in addition to exercise modality.

Eight Weeks of Plyometric Training Improves Ability to Change Direction and Dynamic Postural Control in Female Basketball Players

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 8 weeks of plyometric training on the ability to change direction and postural control in female basketball players. 25 national level female basketball players aged 18–27 years participated in the study. Volunteers were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 13) who replaced a part of their standard regimen by plyometric training twice weekly for 8 weeks, and a control group (n = 12) who continued their usual in-season training program. Before and after the intervention, the ability to change direction and postural control were assessed by force platform under both static and dynamic conditions (with the eyes open and then closed). Isokinetic testing was also performed to calculate the Hamstring/Quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratio. The intervention improved ability to change direction (p ≤ 0.001, d = 1.51) and shortened path length (p = 0.038, d = 0.937) during static balance testing. However, it did not yield significant inter-group differences in postural control in the antero-posterior plane. The stance in the medio-lateral plane seemed the most responsive to the intervention, with reductions in surface area (p = 0.012, d = 0.285), velocity with the eyes closed (p = 0.031, d = 0.968), and path length with the eyes open (p = 0.029, d = 0.968). The intervention did not change the H/Q ratio at the two speeds tested (60° and 120°.s^–1). In summary, the addition of 8 weeks plyometric training to the usual in-season basketball regimen of top-level female basketball players enhanced their ability to change direction and reduced the risk of falls and injuries by improving postural control, but did not increase the H/Q measure of knee stability.

Effects of 8-Week Complex Balance Training in Young Alpine Skiers: A Pilot Study

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an 8-week complex balance training program on dynamic balance in skiers according to the new balance training protocol.

Design

Intervention study, comprising 8 weeks of core stability, plyometric, balance, and stretching exercises.

Participants

Ten young skiers volunteered to take part in this study (average age, height, and body mass were 16,44 +/- 1,07 years, 172,76+/-8,84 cm, and 67,4 11,44 kg, respectively (mean +/- SD)).

Main Outcome Measures

Subjects' dynamic balance performance was assessed and retested after training completion with the use of dynamic balance measurement within the Optojump Next System.

Results

The results of 8-week complex balance training showed significant improvements for jump height (H) and flight time (FT) for the left leg and jumping area in both legs.

Conclusion

The complex balance training program improved parameters of dynamic stability in young skiers and led to decreased asymmetry between lower extremities.

Effects of an 8-Week Body-Weight Neuromuscular Training on Dynamic Balance and Vertical Jump Performances in Elite Junior Skiing Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Vitale, JA, La Torre, A, Banfi, G, and Bonato, M. Effects of an 8-week body-weight neuromuscular training on dynamic balance and vertical jump performances in elite junior skiing athletes: a randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res 32(4): 911-920, 2018-The aim of the present randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of an 8-week neuromuscular training program focused on core stability, plyometric, and body-weight strengthening exercises on dynamic postural control and vertical jump performance in elite junior skiers. Twenty-four Italian elite junior male skiers were recruited and randomized to either an experimental group (EG), performing neuromuscular warm-up exercises, (EG; n = 12; age 18 ± 1 years; body mass 66 ± 21 kg; height 1.70 ± 0.1 m) or a control group (CG) involved in a standard warm-up (CG; n = 12; age 18 ± 1 years; body mass 62 ± 14 kg; height 1.73 ± 0.1 m). lower quarter Y-Balance Test (YBT), countermovement jump (CMJ), and drop jump (DJ) at baseline (PRE) and at the end (POST) of the experimental procedures were performed. No significant differences between EG and CG were observed at baseline. Results showed that EG achieved positive effects from PRE to POST measures in the anterior, posteromedial, posterolateral directions, and composite score of YBT for both lower limbs, whereas no significant differences were detected for CG. Furthermore, 2-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni's multiple comparisons test did not reveal any significant differences in CMJ and DJ for both EG and CG. The inclusion of an 8-week neuromuscular warm-up program led to positive effects in dynamic balance ability but not in vertical jump performance in elite junior skiers. Neuromuscular training may be an effective intervention to specifically increase lower limb joint awareness and postural control.

Influence of force-vector and force application plyometric training in young elite basketball players

Plyometric training composed by unilateral exercises with horizontal jumping direction seems to be an effective way to improve physical performance in athletes. The present study aimed to compare the influence of a combined jumping direction and force application (horizontal-unilateral vs. vertical-bilateral) plyometric training on linear sprinting, jumping, change of direction (COD) and dynamic balance in young elite basketball players. Twenty young (U-13 to U-14) male basketball players (age: 13.2 ± 0.7 years, body mass: 59.5 ± 12.7 kg, height: 172.9 ± 7.9 cm) were randomly assigned either to a unilateral-horizontal (UH, n = 10) or bilateral-vertical (BV, n = 10) plyometric group, twice a week for 6-wk. Both groups performed between 60 and 100 jumps/session. UH executed all jumps unilaterally with horizontal direction, while jumps in the BV were bilaterally with vertical direction. Performance was assessed by a linear sprinting test, vertical and horizontal jumping tests, COD tests (V-cut and 5+5 m with a 180°COD test), an ankle dorsiflexion test and dynamic balance tests (anterior and postero-lateral directions). Within-group differences showed substantial improvements (Effect size (ES):0.31-1.01) in unilateral vertical and horizontal jumping, V-cut test and postero-lateral direction with right leg after both training interventions. Furthermore, UH group also substantially improved (ES:0.33-0.78) all sprinting times and postero-lateral direction with left leg, while BV enhanced anterior direction with left leg (ES:0.25). Between-group analyses showed substantially greater improvements (ES:0.33) in 10-m and V-cut test in UH than in BV. The likely beneficial effect (small ES) achieved in sprinting abilities suggests the combination of unilateral-horizontal jumps to improve such abilities.

Methodological Characteristics and Future Directions for Plyometric Jump Training Research: A Scoping Review

Recently, there has been a proliferation of published articles on the effect of plyometric jump training, including several review articles and meta-analyses. However, these types of research articles are generally of narrow scope. Furthermore, methodological limitations among studies (e.g., a lack of active/passive control groups) prevent the generalization of results, and these factors need to be addressed by researchers. On that basis, the aims of this scoping review were to (1) characterize the main elements of plyometric jump training studies (e.g., training protocols) and (2) provide future directions for research. From 648 potentially relevant articles, 242 were eligible for inclusion in this review. The main issues identified related to an insufficient number of studies conducted in females, youths, and individual sports (~ 24.0, ~ 37.0, and ~ 12.0% of overall studies, respectively); insufficient reporting of effect size values and training prescription (~ 34.0 and ~ 55.0% of overall studies, respectively); and studies missing an active/passive control group and randomization (~ 40.0 and ~ 20.0% of overall studies, respectively). Furthermore, plyometric jump training was often combined with other training methods and added to participants' daily training routines (~ 47.0 and ~ 39.0% of overall studies, respectively), thus distorting conclusions on its independent effects. Additionally, most studies lasted no longer than 7 weeks. In future, researchers are advised to conduct plyometric training studies of high methodological quality (e.g., randomized controlled trials). More research is needed in females, youth, and individual sports. Finally, the identification of specific dose-response relationships following plyometric training is needed to specifically tailor intervention programs, particularly in the long term.

Neuromuscular training reduces lower limb injuries in elite female basketball players. A cluster randomized controlled trial

The study was a two-armed, parallel group, cluster randomized controlled trial in which 15 teams (160 players) were assigned to either an experimental group (EG, 8 teams n = 86), which warmed-up with bodyweight neuromuscular exercises, or a control group (CG, 7 teams, n = 74) that performed standard tactical-technical exercises before training. All injuries during the 2015-2016 regular season were counted. Epidemiologic incidence proportion and incidence rate were also calculated. Countermovement jump (CMJ) and composite Y-Excursion Balance test (YBT) were used to assess lower limb strength and postural control. A total of 111 injuries were recorded. Chi-square test detected statistically significant differences between EG and CG (32 vs 79, P = .006). Significant differences in the injuries sustained in the EG (21 vs 11, P = .024) and CG (52 vs 27, P = .0001) during training and matches, respectively, were observed. Significant differences in post-intervention injuries were observed between in EG and CG during training (21 vs 52, P < .0001) and matches (11 vs 27, P = .006). Significant differences in epidemiologic incidence (0.37 vs 1.07, P = .023) and incidence rate (1.66 vs 4.69, P = .012) between the EG and the CG were found. Significant improvement in CMJ (+9.4%, P < .0001; d = 1.2) and composite YBT (right: +4.4%, P = .001, d = 1.0; left: +3.0%, P = .003; d = 0.8) for the EG was noted. Significant differences in post-intervention CMJ (+5.9%, P = .004) and composite YBT scores (right, +3.7%, P = .012; left, +2.3%, P = .007) between the EG and the CG were observed. Including bodyweight neuromuscular training into warm-up routines reduced the incidence of serious lower limb injuries in elite female basketball players.

Balance Training Programs in Athletes - a Systematic Review

It has become almost routine practice to incorporate balance exercises into training programs for athletes from different sports. However, the type of training that is most efficient remains unclear, as well as the frequency, intensity and duration of the exercise that would be most beneficial have not yet been determined. The following review is based on papers that were found through computerized searches of PubMed and SportDiscus from 2000 to 2016. Articles related to balance training, testing, and injury prevention in young healthy athletes were considered. Based on a Boolean search strategy the independent researchers performed a literature review. A total of 2395 articles were evaluated, yet only 50 studies met the inclusion criteria. In most of the reviewed articles, balance training has proven to be an effective tool for the improvement of postural control. It is difficult to establish one model of training that would be appropriate for each sport discipline, including its characteristics and demands. The main aim of this review was to identify a training protocol based on most commonly used interventions that led to improvements in balance. Our choice was specifically established on the assessment of the effects of balance training on postural control and injury prevention as well as balance training methods. The analyses including papers in which training protocols demonstrated positive effects on balance performance suggest that an efficient training protocol should last for 8 weeks, with a frequency of two training sessions per week, and a single training session of 45 min. This standard was established based on 36 reviewed studies.

Amount of Minutes Played Does Not Contribute to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in National Basketball Association Athletes

There is limited information on the potential risk factors for sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in National Basketball Association (NBA) athletes. This study evaluated 83 NBA players who sustained an ACL injury between 1984 and 2015 to determine the influence of minutes played on injury risk. Minutes played in the injury game, during the season, and over their career were assessed, along with the ability to return to play, player efficiency rating, and playing time after return. Athletes in the NBA played significantly fewer minutes before sustaining an ACL injury (17.1 minutes) than their average minutes per game that season (23.5 minutes; P<.01) or over their career (24.0 minutes; P<.01). One-third of all injuries occurred during the first quarter of the season (preseason to November). There was a 95% rate of return (78 players) to NBA competition the season following ACL injury. Players who were drafted as lottery picks (draft pick 1 to 15) or those who were starters played significantly more minutes the season following injury than those who were not (both P<.01). Players who returned to play had decreased player efficiency ratings when compared with matched controls. This study found that minutes played in a single NBA game did not contribute to the risk of sustaining an ACL injury. Although there was a high rate of return to NBA competition the season following injury, those who were elite athletes played more minutes per game than those who were not. Athletes who returned to play sustained a decrease in player efficiency ratings compared with similar athletes without ACL injury. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(4):e658-e662.].

Star Excursion Balance Test Anterior Asymmetry Is Associated With Injury Status in Division I Collegiate Athletes

Study Design Retrospective cohort. Background Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) performance differs by sport in healthy collegiate athletes, and lower extremity injury rates also vary by sport, sex, and athletic exposure. The relationship between SEBT performance and injury risk has not been evaluated with consideration of these additional variables, which may be necessary to fully describe the relationship between SEBT performance and injury risk. Objectives To assess the association between preseason SEBT performance and noncontact injury occurrence to the knee or ankle in Division I collegiate athletes when controlling for sport, sex, and athletic exposure. Methods Star Excursion Balance Test performance, starting status, and injury status were reviewed retrospectively in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I collegiate athletes from a single institution. A total of 147 athletes were healthy at the time of preseason SEBT testing and either remained healthy (n = 118) or sustained a noncontact injury to the knee or ankle (n = 29) during their sport's subsequent competitive season. Side-to-side asymmetries were calculated in each direction as the absolute difference in reach distance between limbs. Star Excursion Balance Test reach distances and asymmetries were compared between groups using multivariable regression, controlling for sport, sex, and athletic exposure (starter, nonstarter). Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine optimal sensitivity and specificity for significant models. Results When controlling for sport, sex, and athletic exposure, SEBT side-to-side asymmetry in the anterior direction, expressed as an absolute or normalized to limb length, discriminated between injured and noninjured athletes (area under the curve greater than 0.82). Conclusion Assessing side-to-side reach asymmetry in the anterior direction of the SEBT may assist in identifying collegiate athletes who are at risk for sustaining noncontact injuries to the knee or ankle. Level of Evidence Prognosis, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(5):339-346. Epub 29 Mar 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.6974.

Effects of plyometric training on soccer players

Plyometric training (PT) is a technique used to increase strength and explosiveness. It consists of physical exercises in which muscles exert maximum force at short intervals to increase dynamic performances. In such a training, muscles undergo a rapid elongation followed by an immediate shortening (stretch-shortening contraction), utilizing the elastic energy stored during the stretching phase. There is consensus on the fact that when used, PT contributes to improvement in vertical jump performance, acceleration, leg strength, muscular power, increase of joint awareness and overall sport-specific skills. Consequently, PT which was primarily used by martial artists, sprinters and high jumpers to improve performances has gained in popularity and has been used by athletes in all types of sports. However, although PT has been shown to increase performance variables in many sports, little scientific information is currently available to determine whether PT actually enhances skill performance in soccer players, considering that soccer is an extremely demanding sport. Soccer players require dynamic muscular performance for fighting at all levels of training status, including rapid movements such as acceleration and deceleration of the body, change of direction, vertical and horizontal jumps, endurance, speed as well as power for kicking and tackling. In this review we discussed the effects of PT on soccer players by considering gender and age categories.

Type of Ground Surface during Plyometric Training Affects the Severity of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage

The purpose of this study was to compare the changes in the symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage from a bout of plyometric exercise (PE; 10 × 10 vertical jumps) performed in aquatic, sand and firm conditions. Twenty-four healthy college-aged men were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Aquatic (AG, n = 8), Sand (SG, n = 8) and Firm (FG, n = 8). The AG performed PE in an aquatic setting with a depth of ~130 cm. The SG performed PE on a dry sand surface at a depth of 20 cm, and the FG performed PE on a 10-cm-thick wooden surface. Plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), knee range of motion (KROM), maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MIVC) of the knee extensors, vertical jump (VJ) and 10-m sprint were measured before and 24, 48 and 72 h after the PE. Compared to baseline values, FG showed significantly (p < 0.05) greater changes in CK, DOMS, and VJ at 24 until 48 h. The MIVC decreased significantly for the SG and FG at 24 until 48 h post-exercise in comparison to the pre-exercise values. There were no significant (p > 0.05) time or group by time interactions in KROM. In the 10-m sprint, all the treatment groups showed significant (p < 0.05) changes compared to pre-exercise values at 24 h, and there were no significant (p > 0.05) differences between groups. The results indicate that PE in an aquatic setting and on a sand surface induces less muscle damage than on a firm surface. Therefore, training in aquatic conditions and on sand may be beneficial for the improvement of performance, with a concurrently lower risk of muscle damage and soreness.

Effects of cluster vs. traditional plyometric training sets on maximal-intensity exercise performance

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 6-week cluster versus traditional plyometric training sets on jumping ability, sprint and agility performance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen college students were assigned to a cluster sets group (N=6) or traditional sets group (N=7). Both training groups completed the same training program. The traditional group completed five sets of 20 repetitions with 2min of rest between sets each session, while the cluster group completed five sets of 20 [2×10] repetitions with 30/90-s rest each session. Subjects were evaluated for countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump (SLJ), t test, 20-m and 40-m sprint test performance before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

Both groups had similar improvements (P<0.05) in CMJ, SLJ, t test, 20-m, and 40-m sprint. However, the magnitude of improvement in CMJ, SLJ and t test was greater for the cluster group (effect size [ES]=1.24, 0.81 and 1.38, respectively) compared to the traditional group (ES=0.84, 0.60 and 0.55). Conversely, the magnitude of improvement in 20-m and 40-m sprint test was greater for the traditional group (ES=1.59 and 0.96, respectively) compared to the cluster group (ES=0.94 and 0.75, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Although both plyometric training methods improved lower body maximal-intensity exercise performance, the traditional sets methods resulted in greater adaptations in sprint performance, while the cluster sets method resulted in greater jump and agility adaptations.