Comparisons of Land-Based and Aquatic-Based Plyometric Programs during an 8-Week Training Period

Context: Land and aquatic plyometrics have clinical relevance for exercise, sport performance, and rehabilitation, yet study is limited comparing both. Objective: To compare the effects of land-based and aquatic-based plyometric-training programs on performance variables, muscle soreness, and range of motion (ROM). Setting: Aquatic facility and biomechanics laboratory. Subjects: Forty subjects randomly assigned to 3 groups: land (n = 13), water (n = 13), and control (n = 14). Main Outcome Measures: Performance variables, muscle soreness, and ROM were measured before and after an 8-week training period. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and a Bonferroni post hoc test determined significance. Results: ANCOVA revealed significant differences between groups with respect to plantar-flexion ROM ( P < .05). Paired t test determined that the aquatic group significantly increased muscle power pretest to posttest ( P < .05). Conclusions: Results indicate that aquatic plyometric training can be an alternative approach to enhancing performance.