How to Exercise With Plyometrics

Plyometrics is a method of exercising that is used to enhance your athletic skills. If done correctly, plyometrics can help build muscle mass, improve breathing during exercise and fine tune your balance. Plyometric exercises are going to put added tension on your muscles to get results.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Learn a few basic moves. There are many different plyometric exercises that are used for each sport. For example, the plyometrics for running are going to work on the muscles mostly in the lower body.
2. Stretch beforehand. Take at least 10 to 15 minutes before you start the plyometrics to adequately stretch out.
3. Start with plyometrics that incorporate running. Two popular exercises that many coaches start with are the high knee and butt kicker. The high knee involves the athlete running in place with their knees thrust as high as possible. For the butt kicker, the person will run with their heels hitting their rear.
4. Perform the exercise for 30-second to 1-minute intervals. Due to the intensity of the workout, they should not be done for more than short spurts. Rest between each plyometric done.
5. Cool down afterwards. Stretch out and drink plenty of water. If your muscles ache that evening, you should take an over-the-counter pain reliever to ease discomfort.

Tips & Warnings

• You should be in good physical shape before attempting to exercise with plyometrics. The longer that you use plyometrics, the more resistance you can create for the exercises.
• Make sure you have adequate support on your feet before doing plyometrics. Athletic shoes must be worn during sets of drills.