What Are Plyometrics?
Plyometrics is a type of workout that uses explosive movements to improve strength, speed, and power. This type of exercise can be added to your regular workout routine or used as a stand-alone program. Plyometric exercises are typically performed at a high intensity and require quick, powerful movements. These exercises often involve jumping or bounding motions. Plyometric workouts can be adapted to any fitness level, however, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts as you become familiar with the movements.
Incorporating explosive movements into your routine can help you build muscular strength and improve your cardiovascular fitness, and develop your speed, agility, and power.
Some examples of plyometric exercises:
- Squat jumps
- Reverse lunge knee-ups
- Burpees
- Clapping push-ups
- Plyo box jumps
- Tuck jumps
- Lateral bounds
What Are the Benefits?
Jumping and running are two of the most effective ways to build muscle endurance and are the main components of Plyometric training. These movements are an efficient way to increase muscle strength, which allows you to run faster and jump higher. These benefits combined allow your muscles to make more efficient use of energy while improving agility and balance as well. Plyometric training not only increases your ability in these areas but also helps tone your whole body while improving agility, stability and balance, as well as cardiovascular health. Plyometrics also boost your overall stamina and metabolism.
Be Cautious
It’s important to use caution when adding plyometric exercises into your workout routine if you’re just starting your fitness journey or if you have any injuries. You should only attempt plyometric exercises if you have a good foundation of basic strength and stability in your body. If you already have an established workout routine and are physically fit, you can slowly begin to introduce some simple plyometric exercises into your programme. Plyometric movements can cause stress to your joints, so it is important to develop strong ligaments and tendons to perform the movements without causing any injury.
Slowly add plyometric exercises to your routine, starting with basic, lower-intensity moves before moving into more challenging movements. As you gain more strength, you can gradually increase the intensity of the exercises. Weighted vests can be an excellent tool to incorporate into your plyometric training once you have developed and strong and stable foundation.
If you’re interested in adding plyometrics to your workout routine, consult with a certified personal trainer or other fitness professionals to ensure that you perform the exercises safely and effectively. Plyometric exercises can cause stress to the tendons and ligaments, especially the knees and ankles. You must have the strength and fitness level necessary to do these exercises safely and effectively. With proper instruction and guidance, plyometrics can take your fitness routine to the next level. See our Functional Products range, which includes our entire collection of Plyometric Boxes, to find the right equipment for your goals.