Plyometric training enhances jump, sprint, and agility performance across different surface types: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated and quantified the effects of plyometric training (PT) on soft versus rigid surfaces on jump, sprint, and agility performance.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, SportDiscuss, and Web of Science from January 1980 to April 2024. Randomized controlled trials examining PT interventions on the lower limbs with surface descriptions were included. Data extracted by two independent reviewers comprised: 1) the name of the first author and year of publication; 2) study design and participant characteristics; 3) PT program details; and 4) main outcome measures.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: The meta-analysis revealed that soft-surface PT significantly increased the vertical jump height (standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.83; [95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59, 1.07]), while rigid-surface PT also produced significant improvements in jump height (SMD, 0.98; [95% CI 0.68, 1.28]). For horizontal jump performance, soft-surface PT showed significant effects (SMD, 0.96; [95% CI 0.64, 1.27]), while rigid-surface PT demonstrated moderate effects (SMD, 0.78; [95% CI 0.5, 1.05]). Both soft- and rigid-surface PT significantly reduced sprint time (SMD, -1.03; [95% CI -1.24, -0.81] and SMD, -0.89; [95% CI -1.22, -0.57], respectively) and enhanced agility performance (SMD, -1.07; [95% CI -1.34, -0.80]).

CONCLUSIONS

PT significantly enhanced physical performance outcomes, regardless of the surface type. Practitioners may not need to prioritize the specific surface type when implementing PT programs aimed at improving jump, sprint, and agility performances.