Correlational Effects Of Plyometric Training On Leg Muscle Strength, Endurance And Power Characteristics Of Nigerian University Undergraduates

This study focused on the relationship among strength, endurance and power performance characteristics of untrained university undergraduates following three different modes of plyometric training. Participants were 40 untrained volunteer male undergraduates, randomly assigned to three experimental plyometric training groups of depth jumping, rebound jumping and horizontal jumping over a distance, and a fourth group which served as the control. The three experimental groups were made to go through a 12-week exercise programme based on plyometric training procedures. Interval training method was adopted while the progressive resistance training principle was considered to determine the duration and intensity of training. Data collected were analyzed using the mean, standard deviation and range. Relationship between variables was determined using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Results show that there were no significant relationships among the groups in strength and endurance performance characteristics. Significant correlations were recorded in power performance between horizontal jumping and rebound jumping group [0.672; P = 0.033]. All other interactions among the groups on leg power were not significant. On relationship among the three variables based on pooled data across the groups, significant correlation was recorded only between muscle strength and power [0.327;P = 0.039]. Correlation between all other variables was found not to be significant. Based on the finding of the study it was concluded that plyometrics training with repeated jumps horizontally and that which involves rebound jumping on the spot, are capable of improving leg muscle power in similar ways. Moreover, the study also concluded that, plyometrics training is capable of improving leg muscle strength and power significantly