Abstract
Plyometric training is one commonly used method of improving jump performance through improving explosive power generation. Research has also demonstrated that whole body vibration (WBV) can improve jumping and enhance explosive strength especially when supplementing resistance and plyometric training programs. With the drop jump being a common training skill, proper lower extremity landing mechanics are important to consider. Limited evidence suggests that WBV may reduce ground reaction forces and improve knee stability however, its influence on knee loading have not been reported. This study sought to examine the effects of WBV on ground reaction forces and knee valgus during a drop jump. 19 participants (10 female) completed drop jumps pre, immediately post, 10 & 20 minutes post WBV. Results were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA. Main findings indicated that valgus knee angle increased significantly (p=0.011) post vibration and remained elevated across the 10 & 20 minute post vibration time intervals. Significant differences between sexes revealed that females demonstrated greater internal knee abduction moments (p=0.038). Findings that WBV increases knee valgus angle, a position linked to anterior cruciate ligament injury, suggest further investigation understand the effects of WBV on neuromuscular control and eccentric loading. Strength and conditioning professionals should exercise caution when incorporating WBV into plyometric protocols.
Highlights
IntroductionPlyometric training is a commonly used method to improve jump performance and incorporates varying drop jump heights[1]
Jump performance is a trait that benefits athletes across numerous sports
The purpose of this study was to explore the acute effects of an individualized whole body vibration (WBV) training protocol on ground reaction forces, loading rate, valgus knee mechanics and differences between sexes on drop jump performance
Summary
Plyometric training is a commonly used method to improve jump performance and incorporates varying drop jump heights[1]. Exposure to WBV, and more recently an individualized frequency vibration (i.e., specific vibration frequency that elicits highest level of electromyographic activation in a muscle), has been shown to improve explosive and reactive strength when added to a strength training protocol over that of isolated strength training[3]. WBV has been shown to improve jump height in multiple studies[3-8]. The specific mechanism has not been determined but studies have suggested increased efficiency of the muscle spindles or eliciting effects similar to postactivation potentiation in response to muscle activation[9-11]. Given these potential benefits, strength and conditioning professionals may consider WBV as a tool to supplement plyometric training
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