Definition
Explosive jumping and bounding exercises that train muscles to exert maximum force in minimal time. Basically teaching your muscles to become tiny nuclear reactors of power.
Example Usage
Box jumps and other plyometrics have increased my vertical leap, though my downstairs neighbors have definitely noticed.
Origin
Developed by Soviet coach Yuri Verkhoshansky in the 1960s; from Greek 'pleythyein' (to increase) and 'metric' (measure)
Fun Fact
Plyometrics were originally called 'shock training' in the Soviet Union, which is arguably a more honest description of what you're putting your joints through.
Source: Strength and conditioning certification materials
Related Terms
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