The Effect of a Plyometric Protocol on Muscle Potentiation

• Author / Creator

  Booyens, Mariska

• This thesis describes experiments designed to investigate whether a plyometric protocol consisting of drop jumps, induce PAP, and if so, assess the magnitude and time course of the induced PAP. Participants performed a standard warm-up followed by drop jumps or a low-pace walk. PAP induced by the drop jumps were assessed through electrically evoked isometric twitch torques. Peak twitch torque significantly increased with no change in M-wave peak-to-peak amplitude, indicating that the mechanism responsible for the augmented peak twitch torque was distal to the sarcolemma. The PAP dissipated within 6 minutes. By 11-16 minutes following the plyometric protocol, peak twitch torque was below baseline. These results have implications for determining whether a plyometric protocol would be beneficial for athletes to incorporate prior to performance, and if so, determine the optimal time to implement the plyometric protocol for maximal performance benefits. The present study provides evidence that drop jumps induce PAP and maximizes the force generating capacity of the muscle. Drop jumps can be implemented directly prior to athletic performance, lasting no longer than 6 minutes, to maximize the force generating capacity of the muscles

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Drop Jumps
  • Plyometrics
  • Potentiation
  • Muscles

• Graduation date

  Spring 2016

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Science

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3CJ87W9Q

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.