Practical Strategies in Developing Strength and Plyometric Training to Improve Sprinting Speed in Female Student Athletes Within a School Curriculum

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sprinting speed plays a crucial role in many sports, and it is considered a fundamental motor skill. Various training methods can be used to improve sprinting speed. Researchers have shown strength and plyometric training (PT) to be effective in improving sprinting speed. However, most studies have reviewed the effects of strength and PT on sprinting performance in adults and young males. There is a paucity of research that has reviewed the effects of strength and PT on sprinting performance in young females across maturation (pre-peak height, mid-peak height, and post-peak height velocity: peak height velocity student athletes, age 10–16 years). Moreover, no previous review has provided practical strength and PT strategies for young female student-athletes that acknowledge important factors such as growth, forces, and enjoyment. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of progressive strength and PT on sprinting performance in young females and provides practical training programs that can be implemented within a school curriculum. More specifically, this review provides exercise progressions in strength and power training for an eight-week training block that can be easily implemented by strength and conditioning coaches within a school term.