Handheld-Load-Specific Jump Training over 8 Weeks Improves Standing Broad Jump Performance in Adolescent Athletes

This study investigated the effects of handheld-load-specific jump training on standing broad jump (SBJ) performance in youth athletes and the biomechanics changes involved.

Fifteen male athletes (mean age, body weight, height, and body mass index were 14.7 ± 0.9 years, 59.3 ± 8.0 kg, 1.73 ± 0.07 m, 19.8 ± 2, respectively) underwent 15 SBJ training sessions over 8 weeks. The data were collected over three phases: before training, after training, and after training with 4 kg loading. Ten infrared high-speed motion-capture cameras and two force platforms, whose sampling rates were 250 and 1000 Hz, respectively, were used to record the kinematic and kinetic data. Visual three-dimensional software was used for the data analyses.

Jump performance and all biomechanics variables, including joint and takeoff velocities, ground reaction force, takeoff impulse, and mechanical outputs, improved after training.

SBJ training under handheld loading resulted in considerable acute improvements as well as training transfer after 8 weeks. Moreover, explosive ability was effectively enhanced. The present findings serve as a reference for SBJ assessment and jump-related training.