WHAT IS

PLYOMETRIC TRAINING

Also known as ‘jump training’ or ‘plyos’, plyometric training is a relatively new discipline to enter the personal fitness arena which exerts maximum force on the muscles to produce an increase in power, speed and strength.

It involves ‘explosive’ movement – rapid exercises often involving jumping movements to activate the elastic properties of major muscles. Over time this develops a rapid response in the muscles as they contract and extend.

Initially plyometrics training was developed by the Soviet Olympic team in the 1970s to prepare for competition in track and field. Since then it has been widely used by elite athletes worldwide, especially in martial arts, high jump, basketball and tennis.

How can it help me?

Plyometrics are primarily used to maximise power and strength in the muscles. The rapid extension and contraction of the muscles creates shock and tension resulting in maximised force and dynamic movement.

Benefits of this type of training include:

• Massive calorie-burning potential
• Increased strength and stamina
• Improved tone and definition in the legs
• Activation of different main muscle groups
• An increase in your muscles speed/power/reactions
• Increased cardiovascular fitness
• Increased muscle endurance
• Increased muscle tone
• Reduction of body fat

There’s more to plyometrics than simply jumping on and off tables, or attempting a squat mid-air.

There are certain techniques a person must be aware of to ensure that these exercises are executed successfully and safely. It’s key to start slowly and build up, starting with light exercises and low volume whilst mastering technique before moving on to more intense routines as strength progresses.

Who is plyometric training for?

Plyometric training exercises are suitable for a wide range of people. Over the past decade its use in civilian fitness has increased in popularity – making it now a widely used medium in personal training. You may have already tried Plyometric training – as squat jumps, step jumps and tuck jumps are commonly incorporated into High Intensity Interval Training workout plans.

In its raw format Plyometrics is best suited for athletes and people playing professional sports. It is also not recommended for anybody with previous injuries or pain in the joints, especially the knees and back.

Plyometric training shouldn’t be attempted at home without the support of a professional. Due to the nature of the exercises it can be very easy to injure yourself if you don’t have the supervision of an experienced fitness instructor to guide you. If you’re new to plyometrics we can incorporate it into your training plan with a balanced and staged approach to ensure optimum results and minimising the risk of injury.

If you’ve tried plyometrics in the past we can help you to fine-tune your technique and correct any potentially damaging misalignment or mistakes to ensure maximum results going forward.

Why The PT Factory?

At The PT Factory we specialise in advanced training techniques that produce remarkable results for our clients. We work with people from all walks of life with a variety of different goals – from bodybuilding and stamina development to weight loss for weddings and increased physical fitness.

We offer a free 30-minute consultation with no obligation, so you can share your goals with us and discuss how we can work together to achieve them. Simply call us on  0161 399 00 77 or fill in the quick enquiry form below to get in touch.