Plyometric Workout

Yes Or No?

There are many things to consider when looking at plyometric workouts.

What Are Plyometrics?

Plyometric exercise is a form of physical training using exercises that rapidly contract and extend a muscle. Examples are repeated jumping and hopping, quick squats, rebounding, jumping jacks etc.

The movements are very fast and intense and they work particular muscle groups, or sometimes just one area of muscle. Hopping exercises focusing on working just one leg at a time are a good example. Due to the intensity and the resistance, you can see results in muscle tone very fast.

You also would not do as many repetitions compared with other types of workout. People who get bored with regular workouts often like the 'fast and furious' approach of plyometrics.

Plyometrics are a form of aerobic exercise. This means that they involve or improve oxygen consumption by the body. Aerobic exercise is generally good for the heart, blood circulation system, lung strength and general fitness as well as the particular muscle groups being exercised.

However, because of the short sharp aspect of plyometrics, there can be some stress on the muscles and also on the heart. You need to know that you are fit and healthy before you consider beginning a plyometric workout.

Are Plyometrics Safe?

This form of exercise has quick results but is very intense. Therefore, it is only safe for fit and healthy adults. Anyone with heart problems should definitely choose another form of exercise. Even for the healthy, it is wise to have a health screening check before beginning this form of exercise.

Be aware too that there is a risk of injury to joints. This is very similar to the risk from running and it can include serious injury such as stress fractures. Never do plyometrics without wearing suitable shoes. Always warm up with gentle exercises before beginning your workout.

The risk of injury increases hugely if you go on exercising after you are tired, so do not push your body too hard. Falls, sprains and other injuries are very common, especially with hopping exercises where you are more likely to lose your balance or land badly when tired.

Plyometrics should not be practiced by children and young people who are not yet fully grown. The flexibility of their bodies can lead to over stretching with the result of stress and injury to the muscles.

How To Find The Best Workout

It is best to find an experienced person who can help you practice at the right level for your fitness. Never go ahead and copy what you may see somebody do on TV or on YouTube. These are likely to be people who have been doing this for years.

It is very important to take some advice on what will suit your own unique body. So if you do not want to join a class or gym, at least try to get with an instructor one time so they can advise you. Look for somebody that regularly teaches plyometric workouts.

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Author: Peter Charalambos


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Peter Charalambos is a contributing writer for health information sites, sports health sites and a general news and information site. He has written about all aspects of vitamins, minerals and health supplements and constantly strives to uncover biased research which tries to undermine natural products in favour of drugs.

The content on this site is provided for information purposes and is in no way intended to replace the knowledge or diagnosis of your doctor. Our intention is to focus on overall health issues or strategies. For specific guidance regarding personal health questions, we advise consultation with a qualified health care professional familiar with your particular circumstances. We advise seeing a physician whenever a health problem arises requiring an expert's care