Effect of a 6 Week Plyometric Training Program on Agility, Vertical Jump Height and Peak Torque Ratio of Indian Taekwondo Players

Abstract

Purpose: Taekwondo demands for quick change in direction while keeping balance, strength, speed and body control through high level of lower limb strength, agility to improve performance.
Methodology: 30 elite national level male Taekwondo players (mean age 22.0±1.6 years; mean Height, 174.4±4.4; mean mass 62.4±6.9 kg, training experience were 21±2.29 years, 5±1.70 years respectively) were divided into two groups, G1 (n=15) has undergone plyometric training for 6 weeks and G2 (n=15) control group. Before and before after 6 weeks all subjects under went for Illinois agility test, vertical jump by kinematic measurement system t and isotonic muscles (Hamstrings - quadriceps) peak torque ratio by isokinetic dynamometer.
Result: After 6 week of plyometric training program agility, vertical jump height and peak torque ratio was improved significantly (p<0.05) in G1 group (plyometric training group). No significant changes found in G2 group (control group).
Conclusion: Improvement in agility, vertical jump and peak torque ratio of taekwondo players occur after 6 week of plyometric training which will reducing the risk of lower limb injuries.