Effects of a short-term plyometric training on cement and synthetic turf surfaces in young soccer players

Abstract Purpose We investigated the effects of plyometric training on synthetic grass or concrete surfaces on the physical performance of young soccer players. Methods The participants were blocked randomly assigned to a synthetic turf (SYN, n = 9), a concrete surface (CEM, n = 10) or a control group (CON, n = 8). Performance (vertical jump, sprint, and agility) and perceptual measures were performed before and after 4 weeks of plyometric training. Results The within-group effect showed improvements in jump height for CEM, rate of force development during the countermovement jump for SYN, 20-m sprint for CON and CEM, and COD (Change Of Direction) time for all groups ( p < 0.05). Significant between-group effects of the training surface were observed only for squat jump height and the ratio between the countermovement jump and squat jump height ( p < 0.05). Conclusion A short-term plyometric protocol performed on cement or synthetic turf surfaces induced similar jump and sprint performance effects, by not determining specific adaptations in young soccer players.