title: A comparison of drop jump training methods: effects on leg extensor strength qualities and jumping performance.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of two drop jump (DJ) training methods on the strength qualities of the leg extensors and vertical jumping performance. Thirty-five males were allocated to either a control group or one of two training groups, required to perform 72-90 DJ per week for 6 weeks: DJ for maximum rebound height (DJ-H) or DJ for maximum height and minimum ground contact time (DJ-H/t). The subjects were tested before and after the training on leg extensor function for maximum strength and speed-strength under concentric and stretch-shortening cycle muscular actions, and on vertical jumps from a standing position and a run-up. ANOVA with repeated measures showed that a 20% gain in reactive strength (RS) for the DJ-H/t group was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than the other groups, however, this did not transfer to vertical jumping performance. The DJ-H group did not achieve a significant training effect. It was concluded that DJ-H/t method was effective for the development of RS, but training with DJ-H was not intense and/or specific enough to stimulate gains in strength qualities of the leg extensors or jumping performance.
authors.affiliation: School of Human Movement and Sport Sciences, University of Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. w.young@ballarat.edu.au
authors.forename: W B
authors.initials: WB
authors.lastname: Young
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Byrne
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D009068:Movement; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*