Vol 8, Issue 2

A Comparison of Aquatic- vs. Land-Based Plyometrics on Various Performance Variables

Authors

Mallory S. KobakThe University of Akron
Michael J. ReboldThe University of Akron
Renee DeSalvoThe University of Akron
Ronald OtterstetterThe University Of Akron
International Journal of Exercise Science 8(2) : 134-144, 2015.
DOI: 10.70252/UOKY4574

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of an aquatic- (W) and land-based (L) plyometric program on balance, vertical jump height, and isokinetic quadriceps and hamstring strength. Thirty-four participants were randomized into three groups, W (n = 12), L (n = 11), and control (n = 11). The W and L groups completed an eight-week plyometric program. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of condition (F = 346.95, < 0.001) and interaction between condition by time (F = 1.88, = 0.01). Paired samples t-tests revealed statistically significant improvements from pre- to post-testing in the L group for isokinetic quadriceps strength at 60 degrees per second (= 0.02) and hamstring strength at 120 degrees per second (= 0.02). Statistically significant improvements were observed from pre- to post-testing in the W group for balance (= 0.003), vertical jump height (= 0.008), isokinetic quadriceps strength at 60 and 120 degrees per second (< 0.001), and hamstring strength at 120 degrees per second (= 0.03). Results demonstrate that aquatic-based plyometric training can be a valid form of training by producing improvements in balance, force output, and isokinetic strength while concurrently decreasing ground impact forces.

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