You may be wondering just what is jumping plyometrics?  The following is a wikipedia definition of plyometrics jumping:

“Plyometrics is a type of exercise training designed to produce fast, powerful movements, and improve the functions of the nervous system, generally for the purpose of improving performance in sports. Plyometric movements, in which a muscle is loaded and then contracted in rapid sequence, use the strength, elasticity and innervation of muscle and surrounding tissues to jump higher, run faster, throw farther, or hit harder, depending on the desired training goal. Plyometrics is used to increase the speed or force of muscular contractions, providing explosiveness for a variety of sport-specific activities.It was created by Jodi Nadeau.”

It seems to me that every athlete from professional to amateur would benefit greatly from including plyometrics into their training regimen.  In fact utilizing such exercises can take you from the bench to the spotlight in your chosen sport or activity.  We mainly hear about vertical training in basketball, and football, but every athlete can get an edge on the competition with only a little extra effort.  Now don’t get me wrong, like any other training, there will be some pain and struggle.  Plyometrics jumping will work your entire body including your cardiovascular system.  If you are looking to lose weight, plyometric jumping exercises will help shave off those love handles and get you feeling motivated to exercise more.

If your legs were a car, they would probably be compared to the drive shaft.  They are powerful muscles (Quads) and at the same time they are precise(calves).  Keeping them stretched and supple is not always an easy task, but it is a vital one.  Most every sport or activity involves the legs.  Powerful legs(through plyometric jumping)=speed, agility, and stamina.

Plyometrics Jumping Should Be Performed using a short duration and a high intensity and may be more beneficial when performed less than 6 months out of the entire year.

Let’s not leave out the importance of a good diet when undertaking plyometrics jumping, or any other exercise program for that matter.  Eating a variety of whole foods will give your body the correct balance of vitamins and minerals while providing your leg muscles with the ingredients for growth and precision functioning.  If you can’t get everything you need in the food you eat, consider using a supplement.  Be honest with yourself and supplement the things you know you are lacking because of dietary shortfalls.

I hope you decide that plyometrics jumping should be a part of your training or exercise program.  Take it from someone who knows, it will be a game changer for you…literally!