Impact of aquatic based plyometric training on jump performance: A critical review

Abstract

There is evidence to suggest that aquatic plyometric training (APT) is a safer and effective alternative to traditional land-based plyometric training (LPT) when training to increase jump performance. The aims of this review were to critically examine the current literature investigating the effects of land- vs. aquatic-plyometric training on jump performance in athletes. The author searched key terms in five databases to complete a search of the current literature. Available articles were screened for inclusion and exclusion criteria to decide which studies would be deemed eligible for review. Outcome measure that were used in these studies to assess lower extremity power and jump performance included drop jumps, broad jumps, sergeant jumps, repeated countermovement jumps, and vertical jumps. Results from all, but one of the studies included in this critical review showed significant improvements in athletes' jump performance after LPT and APT interventions. Both LPT and APT groups experienced similar increases in jump performance and lower extremity explosive strength, pre- to post-test, in the majority of the studies examined in this review. In conclusion, LPT and APT may have the ability to increase athletes' lower extremity explosive strength and jump performance. This increase in lower extremity explosive strength may improve overall athletic performance. Observations from this review may be used by strength coaches and athletes alike to weigh the pros and cons of both forms of plyometric training.