Plyometric Exercise Technique – Warm Up and Cool Down Session

Plyometrics basically consists of exercises that aim to improve an athlete’s explosive response. This type of exercise makes use of powerful and rapid muscle contractions. The muscles, as well as the tendons, begin in a pre-stretch phase immediately before the powerful contractions. By pre-stretching the tissues, the neuromuscular system is trained to activate the muscles at a higher speed. Consequently, the power output for jumps and sprints is greatly improved.

In plyometric training, exercises will only get the most desired results if they are done correctly. Poorly executed exercises, as a consequence, will bring unwanted results and can even lead to a series of joint or muscle injuries. Therefore, it is vital to learn the proper technique before executing the different plyometric exercises. Once proper form strays during the routine, it would be better to take a break for a while and get back into proper figure.

Like any form of exercise, it’s important to emphasize a thorough warm-up as well as a cool-down routine. The warm-up exercise can be done by running a cardiovascular exercise for 5 to 10 minutes. It can then be followed by a complete lower body workout that includes flexibility exercises.

Stretches should also be held for 15-20 seconds and repeated 3-5 times. On top of that, low-intensity lunges, jogs, and jumps can be performed to prepare muscle tissues and tendons for more strenuous movements.

To alleviate post-workout discomfort and return the involved tissues to their initial state, a slow cooling session and a prolonged stretching exercise should be performed. Stretches should be held for about 30 seconds and repeated 3-5 times.