Now here is a term that may be new to you: Plyometric training equipment. Many athletes use plyometric exercise equipment for their workouts when training for explosive sports like tennis, volleyball, and track.
Often referred to as “jump training”, plyometric exercises allows for maximum force in a short period of time. It is often used in high-intensity interval training, and the purpose is often to increase muscle power and speed which both strengthens and provides a cardio workout at the same time. With this type of exercise, there is no time for relaxation. Plyometric training is usually fast-paced, and works every muscle. Chances are, it will leave you feeling exhausted, but you will know you have taken that first step toward your New Year’s weight-training resolution.
Best of all, plyometric training is fun!
It is important to note that not all plyometric exercises need to be exhausting. Even beginners and the elderly can benefit from this type of exercise. Simple jumping up and down, forward jumps, or push-off exercises can do the body good.
StayFIT Bodyweight+ equipment is an excellent option for use as plyometric training equipment because it is sturdy, immovable, and does not require adjustments. For many jump-training exercises, no special plyometric training equipment is needed.
For other exercises that do require equipment, here are several StayFIT fitness stations that we recommend, along how they could be used in your workout:
- Angled Vault is plyometric training equipment in that is requires one to jump from one side to the other.
- Push-up, Multi-Activity or Flat Bench fitness stations can be used for jumping your feet side-to-side, or jump your feet apart and back together while maintaining the push-up position.
- Leg Stretch or Squat for those same plyometric exercises that you would perform using a bench, but standing upright and jumping back and forth or side-to-side instead of the push-up position. For a different exercise, hold onto the bar and begin by bending your legs and lowering to a comfortable position. Then pause for a fraction of a second and try and come up as fast as possible, even jumping in the air in an explosive movement.
- High/Low Toss includes a medicine ball that one can hold onto while jumping in a variety of patterns.
- Balance Beam also can be used for a side-to-side jump; although, for safety you may want to hold the vertical pole.
- Step-Up use this fitness station for the purpose of jump-up, jump down, or fast step-up exercise using one or both feet.
View images of each Fitness Station listed above.
One advantage to plyometric training is that it can prepare your body’s ability to handle sudden events and changes in movement. For this reason, it is a good idea for all of us to include some of these exercises in our workout.
The next time someone says, “Jump to it!” think about StayFIT equipment and how it can help make your exercising explosively fun.
*As with any exercise program, safety needs to be the main concern. We have provided a list of safety tips on our website, but it may be a good idea to check with your doctor if you have any concerns about using StayFIT or any other plyometric exercise equipment.
