Plyometrics

Plyometrics, also known as plyos, are exercises in which muscles exert maximum force in short intervals of time, and activating a rapid stretch-shortening cycle. While commonly associated with jumping, plyometrics can include explosive upper-body movements, such as plyometric push-ups and switch-ups, with the goal of increasing muscular power (speed-strength).

This training focuses on learning to move from a muscle extension to a contraction in a rapid or "explosive" manner, such as in specialized repeated jumping. The amortization phase (transition from eccentric to contraction) must be very short (milliseconds), as a slow transition will not fully release elastic energy stored in eccentric phase, and instead some stored energy leaks away as heat. SSC training loads tendons elastically and when done properly, it can yield benefits including improved landing mechanics, force absorption, joint stability and greater force and power output, with transferability to many athletic activities, such as sprinting, where similar repetitive movements are required. Progressive plyometric training can also help to reduce the chances of injury, especially to the lower leg, ankle and foot.

Plyometrics are frequently used by athletes, especially martial artists, sprinters and high jumpers, to improve performance, and are used in the general fitness field to a lesser degree.