Background. Plyometric training is an effective strategy to improve power and performance in sprint-based sports; however, evidence regarding its actual effects in athletes during the winter season and its potential influence on the occurrence of health problems remains limited. Objective. To analyse the association between participation in a plyometric exercise programme during the winter pre-season and competitive performance, as well as the occurrence of lower-limb health problems in sprinters. Methods. This will be a prospective observational cohort study with fully online data collection. Federated sprinters or athletes affiliated with athletics clubs will be included. The main exposure will be participation in a plyometric exercise programme (≥2 sessions per week in January). Outcomes will be winter competitive performance (best official time) and lower-limb health problems assessed using the OSTRC-H2 questionnaire. Control variables will include sleep quality (PSQI), internal training load (session-RPE), injury history, and competitive level. Statistical analyses will include linear and logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders. Expected results. A positive association is expected between engagement in plyometric training and competitive performance, along with a lower frequency of lower-limb health problems, particularly among athletes with adequate sleep quality and a well-balanced training load.
Age range
16 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Assessment of changes in winter competitive performance at baseline, after the winter pre-season, and after the competitive season
Timeframe: Baseline, through study completion, an average of 1 month
Assessment of changes in the occurrence of lower-limb health problems at baseline, after the winter pre-season, and after the competitive season
Timeframe: Baseline, through study completion, an average of 1 month