Plyometric vs. isometric training influences on tendon properties and muscle output.

Full Abstract

The purpose of this study was to concurrently determine the effect that plyometric and isometric training has on tendon stiffness (K) and muscle output characteristics to compare any subsequent changes. Thirteen men trained the lower limbs either plyometrically or isometrically 2-3 times a week for a 6-week period. Medial gastrocnemius tendon stiffness was measured in vivo using ultrasonography during ramped isometric contractions before and after training. Mechanical output variables were measured using a force plate during concentric and isometric efforts. Significant (p < 0.05) training-induced increases in tendon K were seen for the plyometric (29.4%; 49.0 +/- 10.8 to 63.4 +/- 9.2 N x mm(-1)) and isometric groups (61.6%; 43.9 +/- 2.5 to 71.0 +/- 7.4 N x mm(-1)). Statistically similar increases in rate of force development and jump height were also seen for both training groups, with increases of 18.9 and 58.6% for the plyometric group and 16.7 and 64.3% for the isometric group, respectively. Jump height was found to be significantly correlated with tendon stiffness, such that stiffness could explain 21% of the variance in jump height. Plyometric training has been shown to place large stresses on the body, which can lead to a potential for injury, whereas explosive isometric training has been shown here to provide similar benefits to that of plyometric training with respect to the measured variables, but with reduced impact forces, and would therefore provide a useful adjunct for athletic training programs within a 6-week time frame.

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Author information

Author/s: Burgess, Katherine E (KE); Connick, Mark J (MJ); Graham-Smith, Philip (P); Pearson, Stephen J (SJ);

Affiliation: Centre for Rehabilitation and Human Performance Research, Directorate of Sport, University of Salford, Manchester, UK.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Comparative Study; Journal Article; Randomized Controlled Trial

Journal: Journal of strength and conditioning research / National Strength & Conditioning Association (J Strength Cond Res), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2007-Aug; vol 21 (issue 3) : pp 986-9

Dates: Created 2007/08/09; Completed 2007/11/08;

PMID: 17685695, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adult
Analysis of Variance
Elasticity
Humans
Leg - physiology
Male

Movement - physiology
Muscle Contraction - physiology
Muscle Strength - physiology
Muscle, Skeletal - physiology
Physical Education and Training - methods
Tendons - physiology

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