Plyometric training in female adolescent soccer players

The purpose of the study was to measure the effects of low impact plyometric training on vertical jump and kicking distance in female adolescent soccer players. Comparisons at three separate time intervals: pre-test, 7 weeks, and 14 weeks were made between individuals completing normal soccer training and competition and those additionally completing once-weekly plyometric training. No significant difference in kicking distance was found between groups at pre-test (p = 0.5005) or 7 weeks (p = 0.1174). However, the plyometric training group had significantly longer kicking distance after 14 weeks (p = <0.0001). The control group displayed a significant decrease in kicking distance between 7 and 14 weeks (p = 0.0081). No significant difference in vertical jump height was found between groups at pre-test (p = 0.8366) or 7 weeks (p = 0.1077); however, the plyometric group had a significantly higher vertical jump after 14 weeks (p = 0.0144). Once-weekly plyometric training may improve soccer performance.