Plyometrics

WHAT IS PLYOMETRICS

To put a basic spin on this system of training Plyometric exercises are like adding an extra movement to a normal exercise, a movement that is fast and powerful. To change a squat into a plyometric squat, at the top of the squat you would perform a jump so your whole body leaves the floor, when you land you lower down into your normal squat and repeat.

This is going to add a further dimension to the squat exercise, but are their any benefits to this kind of training. If you are an athlete then yes I think there is a benefit to plyometric training as it is said to improve your speed and performance in your particular sport. So if I was a sprinter or a jumper then plyometric training is probably going to help me run faster or jump higher.

But what about me, is it worth my while to start plyometric training ? Well I don’t think so, after all I am working out on a regular basis to tone up my body, get rid of the jelly belly and get fit and stay fit. So plyometric training is not the right method of training for my needs. Logically this kind of training is going to put extra pressure on joints due to the higher impact of the exercises. So care should be taken before these exercises become part of your workout program.

It is said that the type of exercises you should do when using plyometric training should reflect as closely as possible the type of sport you are training for, thus developing more power and strength for your given sport. Technique is also an important part of these type of exercises because of the added impact involved.

In my opinion plyometrics is for athletes, so if you are an athlete then it could be a valuable type of training for your sport with the right guidance. I do not believe this is the type of training that would be of any benefit to the normal keep fitter like myself and especially beginners at keeping fit.

This post only skips over the plyometric training method and is not in anyway a guide to plyometrics. So if you have decided to give this kind of training a place in your exercise program it would be an important step to do some research and may be get some professional advice.