Whats The Deal With Plyometrics?

So we have all heard of the fitness guru term plyometrics; or maybe not. Plyometric training, or also known as jump training is basically the stretching of muscles prior to contracting them. This stretching of muscles occurs when jumps are performed one after the other. When a person lands from a jump the quadriceps muscles stretch as the knees bend. This pre-stretch has been proven to enhance the power of the second jump. Plyometric training has received its criticism due to the high risk of injury due to in depth jumping which can involve boxes and landing on hard surfaces. Keep in mind that although it seems as jumping is a skill you may not need instruction on, the forces sustained from jumping on hard surfaces and properly are important. Safe and effective plyometric training programs should stress the quality of the jumps and not the quantity. Since plyometrics involve using the lower body it is important to be attentive to techniques. Here are some tips on safe landing techniques:
1) Try to focus on landing from toe to heel from a vertical jump.
2) When landing avoid excessive side to side motions at the knee.
3) Try to bend the knee in one form of motion as this makes the landing forces
better to be absorbed through the muscles.
For those who want to try something different, plyometrics serve as a great alternative to cardio and strenthing the lower body.