Authors
Jennifer L. Hunnicutt, Medical University of South Carolina
Craig L. Elder, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
J. Jay Dawes, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Amanda J. Sinclair Elder, University of Colorado Colorado Springs
International Journal of Exercise Science 9(2): 175-186, 2016.
DOI: 10.70252/EZTO5697
Abstract
Plyometric training has been implemented to increase jump height in a variety of sports, but its effects have not been researched in figure skating. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a plyometric training program on on-ice and off-ice jump performance. Six collegiate figure skaters (19.8±1.2 years; 164.7±4.9 cm; 60.3±11.6 kg) completed a six-week sport-specific plyometric training program, consisting of low to moderate intensity plyometric exercises, while eight collegiate figure skaters (21.1±3.9 years; 162.6±6.0 cm; 60.4±6.1 kg) served as the control group. Significant increases were found for vertical jump height, standing long jump distance, (F = 31.0, p < 0.001), and flight time (F = 11.6, p = 0.007). No significant differences were found for self-reported jump evaluation (p = 0.101). Six weeks of plyometric training improved both on-ice and off-ice jump performance in collegiate figure skaters, while short-term skating training alone resulted in decreases. These results indicate that figure skaters could participate in off-ice plyometric training.
Recommended Citation
Hunnicutt, Jennifer L.; Elder, Craig L.; Dawes, J. Jay; and Sinclair Elder, Amanda J. (2016) “The Effects of a Plyometric Training Program on Jump Performance in Collegiate Figure Skaters: A Pilot Study,” International Journal of Exercise Science: Vol. 9 : Iss. 2, Pages 175 – 186.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70252/EZTO5697