Muscle Elasticity Training – Benefits and Drawbacks

Athletes have long desired to rapidly develop their skills in running, jumping, and throwing. To achieve optimal results in these areas, they require not only sufficient strength, but also adequate power. It is important to note that the ability to generate power is not the same as the strength we possess. We may have great maximum strength, but a weak conversion of this strength into power, resulting in ineffective utilization. Of course, there are methods to enhance/improve power output during exercise. One of the most effective methods is plyometrics, invented by Yuri Verkhoshansky. In this article, we will discuss this method. The term 'plyometrics' refers to the situation in which the muscle is first quickly stretched in an eccentric movement and then immediately transitions into a fast and explosive concentric movement, in which it contracts. Scientific studies and training practices have confirmed that the muscle will perform a concentric movement stronger and faster after being quickly stretched. An example of this is m.in. golfers, who before a swing perform a fast and energetic swing, thereby stretching their muscles, to hit the ball with maximum force upon return. This is an example of the contraction-stretch cycle. Thanks to this cycle, it is possible to monitor muscle tension and prevent injuries such as muscle tears. When the muscle is quickly and strongly stretched, nerve receptors send an impulse to our nervous system to initiate processes that aim to prevent muscle tearing. Then, braking processes follow, such as the release of a strong muscle cramp. There is also the release of the potential energy accumulated during contraction to release the accumulated force like a spring. Plyometric exercises aim to bring about positive changes and improvements in the processes and muscles to improve the performance of fast movements. The training aims m.in. to learn the correct technique, to use the contraction-stretch cycle smoothly and effectively.