The Effect of Eight Weeks Plyometric Exercise On The Lower Body Performance of Sprint Hurdle And Taekwondo: In Case Of Addis Ababa Sport Clubs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to find out the effect of eight weeks plyometric exercise on the lower body performance of taekwondo and hurdling clubs. A quasi-experimental design was employed. The study subjects were selected from three Addis Ababa area (Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Gere world taekwondo club, and Best world taekwondo club) using purposive sampling technique. Thus, the subjects in the study were athletes (n=40), coaches (n=4), and administrative staff of oromia world taekwondo federation (n=1). Data collection instruments such as Standardized fitness test, semi-structured interview and observation. The data gathered through Standardized fitness test were analyzed by using STATA version 14, then Independent sample t-test was used. The result of this study shows that there was statistically significant was observed between pre- test and post- test due to eight weeks plyometric training at P<0.05. The findings of this study show that eight weeks plyometric exercise had effect on the improvement of lower body power performance, leg explosive power, leg strength and flexibility of taekwondo and hurdlers. The researcher recommends to incorporate eight weeks plyometric exercise in to their annual training plan in order to improve power, flexibility and strength.