Plyometric approaches and their efficiency in sports treatment and rehabilitation

Abstract

The paper is devoted to conducting a comprehensive analysis of plyometrics as a relatively new approach in training and rehabilitation that is becoming a must component of routine training and recovery programs. The usefulness and efficiency of plyometric exercises were proved by many scholars, trainers, athletes and therapists, the potential benefit that can be received from plyometrics is assured by the specific physiological and nervous changes that can be noticed in athletes while performing plyometric exercises which leads to further improvements in key physical characteristics of athletes as strength, coordination, speed of reactions, skills and the level of resistance. The conducted study has proven the importance of factors that can increase the efficiency of plyometrics or reduce it if trainers, athletes and physiotherapists are not prepared well, specifically regarding the consideration of previous injuries or other health issues of individuals before starting the implementation of these techniques. Moreover, as plyometrics includes a wide range of activities and they can be performed with different intensities it is possible to develop different skills within the group of athletes depending on their needs, individual physical characteristics, their previous training experience and past health issues, which makes this approach appropriate in all sports and rehabilitation program.