Plyometric Training Enhances Proprioception: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Context: This systematic review investigated the effects of plyometric exercise interventions on proprioception. Methods: An electronic search was conducted in October 2022 across eight databases: PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Science Direct, Google Scholar, DOAJ, IEEE Xplore, and Cochrane. To be included in the review, studies had to meet all the established inclusion criteria. Twelve studies were included in the final analysis, and their quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Results: The review found that the included studies considered various plyometric training protocols and methods for assessing proprioception. Despite differences in training regimens and assessment metrics, the data consistently showed a positive effect of plyometric training on proprioception. Conclusions: The review concluded that plyometric exercises improve proprioception, regardless of the specific type of training or assessment method used. A primary limitation identified was the scarcity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that focus on plyometric exercises and their impact on proprioception.