Plyometric training for soccer goalkeepers

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the influence of plyometric training using the "shock" method on the explosive strength (muscle power) of the lower limbs of soccer goalkeepers. The study involved 4 soccer goalkeepers, 2 professionals, and 2 juniors from Marechal Esporte Clube Ltda, aged 19 to 24 years. During the pre-test, the athletes performed a vertical jump test and were weighed to determine muscle power using the Lewis nomogram, which adjusts the vertical jump result to the body weight. The plyometric training program, using the "shock" method, included three sessions per week over four weeks. In the first week, jump heights were distributed as follows: 45 cm, 55 cm, and 65 cm, while in the remaining three weeks, the height was set at 75 cm. After four weeks of training, a post-test and a closed questionnaire with four questions were conducted. Statistical analysis included mean (X), standard deviation (SD), Student's t-test for dependent samples, and questionnaire evaluation. Results indicated an average increase in muscle power of 10 Kg.m/s or 8.01%, with a pre-test mean of X=124.75±7.09 Kg.m/s and a post-test mean of X=134.75±7.80 Kg.m/s (p<0.001). The questionnaire revealed that athletes experienced no issues with 75 cm jumps, and after training, 75% reported considerable improvement while 25% reported significant improvement in performance. None of the athletes had previously engaged in plyometric training using the "shock" method. Thus, the plyometric training using the "shock" method proved efficient in improving the explosive strength (muscle power) of the lower limbs in a four-week period.