Springbak Speed Training Tips – Plyometrics
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Plyometrics have long been considered a key in developing explosiveness, quickness and speed. Such explosiveness is referred to as “Strength in Motion”. Plyometric training links together strength with speed to create power. It’s essential to athletes, primarily to those who run, jump, lift or throw.
Plyometric training is designed to enable a muscle to reach maximum strength in a short amount of time. This in turn leads to muscles that propel athletes faster, higher and more explosive.
Our patented and proven Springbak Springsoles will give you a competitive advantage as well. The Springsoles will give you a longer stride length, and quicker stride frequency, both necessary to gain speed. Together with plyometric training, this is the combination winning athletes are using today.
There are several types of plyometric training drills—or jumps—which are useful for developing athletic explosiveness. The following are some of the most widely used:
1. Jumps in place—a jump completed by landing in the same spot where the jump started. Low in intensity, yet it provides stimulus by requiring athletes to rebound quickly, jump after jump
2. Standing Jumps—stresses single maximum effort, horizontal or vertical with recovery time between each, and repeated
3. Multiple Hops & Jumps—combination of the above, yet are done one after another
4. Bounding—exaggerated normal running, focusing on lifting and “floating” as you run
5. Box Drills—combines multiple hops and jumps with depth jumps using boxes to land on
6. Depth Jumps—uses athletes body weight and gravity to exert force against ground. Performed by stepping out from box and dropping to ground, then jumping back up to the height of the box
Each type of jump is useful for developing explosiveness in all sports. Add the use of barriers such as cones and hurdles to increase training variety and intensity. Also, add a 5-10 yard sprint after each jump, or the use of a ball (catching, dribbling) to make it more sports specific.
When designing a plyometric training program, a good rule to follow is:
1. Train Plyo’s 2 times a week for beginners
2. Start with relatively low set/rep ratio (3 sets, 8 jumps per set)
3. Give good recovery time between sets for maximum effort
4. Make drills sports specific as possible (Jump/Sprint, Jump/Catch Ball)
Be creative, follow your impulse, and listen to your body. Good Luck!
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