Effect of Plyometric Training on Vertical Jump Performance in Athletes: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Vertical jump performance is a key indicator of lower-limb explosive power, neuromuscular coordination, and rapid force production. Plyometric training is widely used to enhance these capacities through the stretch–shortening cycle mechanism.

Objective: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of plyometric training in improving vertical jump performance among athletes and physically active individuals.

Methods: A literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and the PICOS framework. Literature searches were performed in Scopus, Crossref, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2023 and 2025. Eligibility criteria included experimental and quasi-experimental studies involving athletes or physically active individuals, with plyometric training as the intervention and vertical jump as the primary outcome. A total of 1,203 records were identified, and 29 studies met the inclusion criteria after screening. Data were synthesized narratively due to heterogeneity across study designs, interventions, and outcome measures. Risk of bias assessment was not performed.

Results: Most included studies demonstrated significant improvements in vertical jump performance following plyometric training. Reported improvements ranged from 3.5 cm to 24.3%, with several studies reporting statistically significant results (p < 0.05). The magnitude of improvement varied depending on training type, frequency, duration, and participant characteristics.

Conclusion: Plyometric training is an effective intervention for improving vertical jump performance across various athletic populations. However, heterogeneity in training protocols and the absence of methodological quality assessment limit the strength of evidence. Future studies should standardize intervention protocols and incorporate rigorous risk of bias evaluation.