Effect of fast stretch-shortening cycle plyometric training on lower limb strength qualities in rhythmic gymnasts

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6-week fast stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) plyometric training programme on both fast and slow SSC strength qualities in pre-teen rhythmic gymnasts. Methods: Twenty-two female gymnasts, aged 10.8 ± 1.2 years, were divided into an experimental group (EG, n = 11) and a control group (CG, n = 11). Both groups underwent a series of tests such as 10/5 repeated jump and the countermovement jump before and after the 6-week plyometric intervention programme. All participants remained in their regular rhythmic gymnastics training during the intervention period and only EG underwent the fast SSC plyometric training. The plyometric training consists of three exercises focused on achieving a ground contact time of <0.25s. The volume of foot contact was increased after 3 weeks, from 150 to 240 with 30 s rest between sets and 2 min rest between exercises for two times per week. Results: Results showed that EG improved significantly on reactive strength index (RSI) (53.5% ± 46.1%, P < 0.001) and jump height (JH) (8.3% ± 25%, P = 0.018), but not for CG. Furthermore, significant differences were found in RSI (P = 0.015) and JH (P = 0.006) between EG and CG at post-test. Conclusions: The study concluded that plyometric training that focuses on fast SSC implemented for 6 weeks on pre-teen gymnasts improves the RSI and JH, which shows that fast SSC exercises enhance the reactive strength and suggest that adaptations from fast SSC training can be transferred to slow SSC capabilities.