Effect of adding plyometric training to physical education sessions on specific biomechanical parameters in primary school girls

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the effect of adding a school-based plyometric training program (PMT) to
physical education (PE) sessions on the strength, balance, and flexibility in primary school girls. Methods: Students from
grades 3-6 were randomized equally to a plyometric or control group. In the control group, students took their regular
PE classes twice a week. In the plyometric group, students performed PMT twice a week during the initial 20 minutes of
every PE session. The Lido Linea closed kinetic chain isokinetic dynamometer, Star excursion balance test (SEBT), and
sit-and-reach test were used to assess muscle strength, balance, and flexibility, respectively, before and after nine weeks
of training. Results: The improvement in extension peak force (p=0.04) and extension total work (p<0.001) was more
prevalent in the PMT group than in the control group. SEBT scores had improved significantly (p<0.05) for all directions
in the PMT group, except in the anterior direction, which was highly significant (p<0.001). Hamstring and lower back
flexibility had improved more in the PMT group than in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Adding PMT to regular PE
classes has a positive and notable effect on muscle strength, balance, and flexibility in primary school students.