Effects of Accentuated Eccentric Loading Combined with Plyometric Training on Strength, Power, Speed, and Agility in Male Rugby Players.

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether an accentuated eccentric loading combined with plyometric training provides better strength, power, speed, and agility adaptations than a traditional complex training. Twenty-eight competitive male rugby players (mean age = 19.53 ± 1.3 years) were subjects in this study. All subjects were randomly assigned to 2 groups: (a) Accentuated eccentric loading combined with plyometric training group (AECT, n = 14) ; and ( b) Traditional complex training group (TCT, n = 14). The subjects were tested for strength, peak power, speed, and agility prior to the training and after the 6th-week of training. Both the AECT and the TCT groups performed identical training except that the AECT group used a weight-release device attached to a barbell loaded with plates, while the TCT group used just the barbell loaded with plates. Statistical analyses revealed significant (P<0.05) between-group differences after training. The results showed that the AECT group significantly increased strength and agility compared to the TCT group (P<0.05). Both the AECT and the TCT groups resulted in a significant increase in strength, power, speed, and agility compared to the pre-test (P<0.05). Hence, accentuated eccentric loading combined with plyometric training is better than traditional complex training for developing strength and agility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]