Effects of Short-Term Plyometric Training on High-Intensity Movement-Related Variables in Elite Female Field Hockey Players Using Global Positioning System

The implementation of revised rules in modern field hockey has emphasized the importance of high-intensity movements such as short sprints, accelerations, and decelerations. This study aimed to analyze the effects of short-term plyometric training on high-intensity movement-related variables in elite female field hockey players. For this study, 20 collegiate female field hockey players were divided into two groups of 10: the Continuous Training Group (CTG) and the Plyometric Training Group (PTG). Each group underwent their respective training protocols for 60 minutes, three times a week, over a six-week period. To analyze the impact of these programs on high-intensity movement-related variables, simulated matches were conducted before and after the training period to measure high-intensity movement-related variables and athletic performance. The effectiveness of the programs was assessed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. The results showed significant improvements in high-intensity movement-related variables for the PTG group compared to the CTG group in maximum velocity, sprint distance, and the number of acceleration bouts, with significant group × time interactions (all, p < 0.05). In terms of athletic performance, significant improvements were found in the 10m sprint, 20m sprint, and arrowhead agility test, with significant group × time interactions (all, p < 0.05). This study concludes that plyometric training is more effective than continuous and agility training in improving high-intensity movement-related variables and athletic performance in elite female field hockey players.