Plyometric Exercise
Pronunciation: ply-oh-MET-rik
High-intensity training involving rapid muscle lengthening followed by explosive shortening to develop power.
Full Definition
Plyometric exercises, also called jump training or plyos, are specialized movements that utilize the stretch-shortening cycle of muscles to generate maximum force in minimum time. These exercises involve an eccentric (lengthening) muscle contraction immediately followed by a concentric (shortening) contraction. Physical therapists incorporate plyometrics in later stages of rehabilitation to restore explosive power, particularly for athletes returning to sports or individuals needing to improve functional power for daily activities.
Usage
Usage note: Can be shortened to 'plyos' in informal documentation but use full term in formal reports.
In Context
- "Plyometric exercises were introduced once the patient achieved adequate strength benchmarks." — Progression note
- "The return-to-sport protocol includes sport-specific plyometric exercise progressions." — Rehabilitation protocol