The effect of Blazepod Flash Reflex Training program on vertical jump in U15 female volleyball players

Abstract

Abstract Introduction In modern volleyball, the vertical jump represents an important factor that conditions the achievement of sports performance. Aim and purpose This study has monitored the integration of sensory technology through the Flash Reflex Training BlazePod system in a specific physical training program focused on the vertical jump development in the case of U15 female volleyball players. Materials and methods This group consisted of 17 volleyball players (1.65 ±.059 m /48.65 ± 9,31 kg) with an experience of at least 3 years. The duration of the intervention was 10 weeks, twice a week. Predefined tests provided by the Optojump Next optical measuring system were used in this sense: the countermovement jump (CMJ), the squat jump (SJ), the 30 cm drop jump (DJ) and jumps 15 s (15 s). Results After 20 training sessions, 11 parameters out of the 16 measured have improved significantly (p<0,001) as follows: the flight time increased at CMJ from.427 to.458 s, at SJ from.459 to.481 s, at DJ from.448 to.477 s; the jump height increased at CMJ from 22,32 to 25,86 cm, at SJ 26.10 to 28.53 cm, at DJ from 24.88 to 28.22; the specific energy increased at CMJ from 2.18 to 2.53 J/kg, at SJ 2.57 to 2.79 J/kg, at DJ from 2,42 to 2,76 J/kg, at 15 s from 45.20 to 48.59 J/kg; the average specific power at 15 s increased from 26.04 to 28.56 W/kg. Conclusions The validation of the exercises’ effectiveness was given by the data obtained by applying the tests with the OptoJump Next system, confirming the hypothesis that this program has beneficial effects on the vertical jump of the volleyball players participating in the study.