Effects of plyometric training on agility in male soccer players—a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Plyometric training is used to improve human neuro-muscular function and performance in sports. Agility as a necessary motor ability, which is one of the physical components of success in many sports, is especially important for the optimal performance of soccer players. Due to changes in direction and movement during the game, soccer players shows the ability to quickly change direction, stop quickly and perform through fast, accurate, and precise repetitive movements. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of plyometric training on the agility in male soccer players, based on studies that have dealt with the effects of plyometric training. Methods: The search and analysis of the studies were done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyzes (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search of 4 databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science and Research Gate) was conducted using all available studies by November 2021. The identified studies had to meet the following criteria: original longitudinal studies written in English, active male soccer players as sample of participants, experimental treatment of plyometric training with at least two groups of subjects, studies that covered the impact of plyometric training, and studies containing agility tests. Results: A total of 21 studies were included in the systematic review. Improvements in agility tests were small, moderate, and large and ranged from 2% to 14.63%. The greatest improvement in agility was shown in soccer players after a two-week and six-week plyometric program, where the agility test showed a significant improvement of 14.63%. Programs lasting six and eight weeks proved to be the most effective plyometric training program. Plyometric training related to jumps with a progressive increase in intensity and a series of exercises for activation of the lower extremities, there was an improvement of 0.41 s to 0.90 s. Conclusions: Based on the analysis of the included studies, it can be concluded that according to the duration of the program, the minimum period where there can be an improvement in agility and other motor skills is six weeks, and that the usual weekly load is two to three pieces of training.