Difference of neuromuscular responses by additional loads during plyometric jump

Plyometric training is a training method to increase the motor output, stretch-shortening cycle which could be associated with power output. To increase the neuromuscular output, various training variables have been incorporated in training programs. Weight vest is one of the variables to develop it. However, how much load can effectively develop the neural response is still not clearly understood. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of additional external loads on neuromuscular response of lower body during plyometric jump. Total 19 men performed jump tests with weight vest (two jumps in each additional load; 0%, 10%, 15% and 20% of bodyweight [BW]). During the tests, neuromuscular responses of lower extremity were measured. In vertical jump, 0%BW group was higher than the other heavier loads. In rate of force development (RFD), 10%BW was higher than 15%BW and 20%BW. In 0-30 msec of interval RFD, the heavier load groups were greater than 0%BW and in 0-50 msec, 15%BW and 20%BW were higher than 0%BW. In neuromuscular efficiency (NME), 15%BW and 20%BW were greater than 0%BW in ankle joint. This research indicated that plyometric jump with additional load causes greater RFD and NME of lower extremity compared with jump training without additional load. During weight vest plyometric jump, 10%-20% of BW load is advantageous to NME of lower body and 10% of BW load is effective to develop RFD of lower extremity.