Can Plyometric Training Improve Badminton Players' Smash Jumps? A Literature Review

Background: The jumping smash is a crucial attacking technique in badminton that requires leg muscle strength and high explosive power. The performance of this technique is highly dependent on the athlete's explosive ability, so effective and scientifically-based training methods are needed. Plyometric training has been widely used to increase explosive power, but scientific evidence specifically examining its effect on the jumping smash performance of badminton players is still limited and scattered. Objectives: This study aims to critically analyze scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of plyometric training in improving the jumping smash ability of badminton players. Methods: This study used a systematic literature review method with reference to the PRISMA guidelines. Articles were searched for in the Scopus and Google Scholar databases using the keywords “plyometric exercise” AND “jumping smash” AND “badminton performance.” Articles published in the last five years, available in full text, and relevant to plyometric interventions in badminton athletes were analyzed in depth. Results: Of the 677 articles identified, seven studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of the analysis showed that plyometric training consistently improved jump height, lower limb muscle power, and jumping smash performance, including accuracy and effectiveness of the hit. These improvements were closely related to the optimization of the stretch-shortening cycle and neuromuscular adaptation. Conclusion: Plyometric training has been proven to be effective and significant in improving the jumping smash ability of badminton players. This training needs to be integrated systematically, progressively, and specifically into the training program to achieve optimal and sustainable performance improvement.