The effects of Four-Week plyometric training on delaying muscle fatigue in youth rowers

This study aimed to evaluate whether a four-week plyometric training program could improve rowing-specific performance and delay muscle fatigue in young rowers, addressing the limited evidence on its effectiveness in this population. Twenty-three youth male rowers were recruited and randomly divided into a control group (n = 12), which continued their regular strength and conditioning training, and an experimental group (n = 11), which received four weeks of plyometric training. Pre- and post-training assessments included muscular fitness tests (countermovement jump and isometric mid-thigh pull) and muscle fatigue analysis (2000-meter rowing time trial). Biomechanical parameters and fatigue indices were compared between groups to evaluate the training's effectiveness. Results Statistical analysis revealed that, compared to the control group, which maintained regular strength and conditioning training, the experimental group, which received four weeks of plyometric training, showed significant improvements in post-test performance metrics, including explosive power, maximal strength, and rowing performance (p < 0.05). Additionally, the median frequency (MDF) slope from surface electromyography (sEMG) data for the back and lower limbs were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings indicate that a four-week plyometric training program can effectively improve rowing performance and mitigate muscle fatigue in youth male rowers, enhancing overall competitive performance.