Investigation of the effect of plyometric training on some selected motoric features in artistic gymnastic athletes

This study was conducted to examine the effect of plyometric training on basic motoric characteristics in athletes performing artistic gymnastics. The sample of the study consisted of a total of 24 athletes, boys and girls, between the ages of 6-8, who continue their activities within the Sarp Academy Gymnastics Sports Club located within the borders of Bursa province. 12 of the athletes were randomly selected as the control group and 12 as the experimental group by drawing lots using the Simple Random Sampling Method. Pre-test and post-test measurements were made for the parameters that constitute the basic motoric characteristics of the athletes: speed, hand grip strength (force), balance, flexibility, agility and explosive power. 6 different movements were determined for the athletes from the 6-week plyometric training method studies, and these movements were applied to the athletes 3 times a week in addition to their own training. Statistical analyzes of the study were performed with the R-Studio 1.4.1103 package program. In all statistical analyzes in the study, results with a p value below 0.05 were considered statistically significant. As a result of the data obtained as a result of the measurements, there was no significant difference in the balance (p = 0.673) and flexibility (p = 0.43) parameters of the experimental group, while speed (p = 0.009), strength (p = 0.008), agility (p = 0.006) and Significant differences were found in explosive power (p<0.001) parameters. As a result, it can be said that the plyometric training program is effective in improving the motoric features that have an intense effect on artistic gymnastics athletes above the standard level. It may be recommended that artistic gymnastics coaches and administrators include plyometric training movements in their training programs. Keywords: Plyometric, artistic gymnastics, explosive power, speed, agility