Optimal drop heights for plyometric training

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of drop height in the performance of plyometric training. Thirty male subjects were asked to perform drop jumps from heights of 0.12, 0.24, 0.36, 0.46, 0.58, and 0.68 m, as well as counter-movement jumps and squat jumps. They performed their jumps on a Kistler force platform, and the resultant force trace was integrated to calculate negative displacement of the total body centre of gravity (CG), net height rise of the CG, maximum vertical force, maximum vertical velocity, and peak instantaneous power output derived from the product of force and velocity. The results showed that the best performance in all measured parameters was for the drop height of 0.12 m. This finding differed from results of similar studies reported in the literature by others (Asmussen and Bonde-Petersen 1974, Bosco and Komi 1978). This finding was interpreted in terms of a skill and co-ordination element in the performance of plyometric movements, in contrast to a natural biomechanical response to imposed load, and the state of muscle training and competency.