The Effects of Land Versus Aquatic Plyometrics on Power, Torque, Velocity, and Muscle Soreness
Year: 2003
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: The research consensus is that plyometric training can enhance athletic performance. However, there is also an increased risk of muscle soreness and damage caused by external forces acting upon a joint that momentarily surpass the structural integrity of the muscles, bones, and connective tissue. In contrast, aquatic training provides efficiency, comfort, and training at any level of intensity. Less risk of muscle soreness due to the buoyancy that water provides would also be expected. Researchers have not compared muscle soreness and muscle damage between plyometric training on land and in water. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare changes in performance and muscle soreness between plyometric training on land (LP) and in water (AP). METHODS Thirty-two college aged females were randomly assigned to 8 wks of an identical plyometric training program on land (n = 16) or in an aquatic (n = 16) setting. Performance outcome variables were peak power, peak torque, and velocity and were assessed pre-training, mid-training, and post-training. Muscle soreness of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and gastrocnemius muscle was estimated using an established ordinal scale and self-report of pain sensitivity upon muscle palpation as measured with an algometer (Algometer FDK40, Scrip Inc.; Peoria, IL). Muscle soreness and pain sensitivity were assessed at baseline (first week of training) and when training intensity was increased at week 3 and week 6 at 0, 48, and 96 hr post-training bout. RESULTS Performance indictors increased for both groups (pre-training <mid-training <post-training, p <0.001). Muscle soreness was significantly greater in LP compared to AP at baseline and each time training intensity was increased, p = 0.01. CONCLUSION Aquatic plyometric training provided the same performance enhancement benefits as land plyometrics with a significantly reduced perception of muscle soreness. Therefore, aquatic plyometrics is viable training option for coaches and strength specialists to enhance performance in athletes while reducing muscle soreness.
Institution: The Ohio State University
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2073953361