Effect of adding plyometric training to physical education sessions on specific biomechanical parameters in primary school girls

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine the effect of adding a school-based plyometric training program (PMT) to physical education (PE) sessions on the strength, balance, and flexibility in primary school girls. METHODS: Students from grades 3-6 were randomized equally to a plyometric or control group. In the control group, students took their regular PE classes twice a week. In the plyometric group, students performed PMT twice a week during the initial 20 minutes of every PE session. The Lido Linea closed kinetic chain isokinetic dynamometer, Star excursion balance test (SEBT), and sit-and-reach test were used to assess muscle strength, balance, and flexibility, respectively, before and after nine weeks of training. RESULTS: The improvement in extension peak force (p=0.04) and extension total work (p<0.001) was more prevalent in the PMT group than in the control group. SEBT scores had improved significantly (p<0.05) for all directions in the PMT group, except in the anterior direction, which was highly significant (p<0.001). Hamstring and lower back flexibility had improved more in the PMT group than in the control group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Adding PMT to regular PE classes has a positive and notable effect on muscle strength, balance, and flexibility in primary school students.