Comparison of the height of jump and maximal power of the lower limbs using coaching and laboratory tests in volleyball players

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the results obtained in the coaching tests (block jump and spike jump) with the results of laboratory tests (counter-movement jump and spike jump performed on force plate) in volleyball players. The study involved 29 players taking part in the competition Polish Volleyball League SA. Characteristics of participants: age 27.3 ± 3.8 years, body height 197.2 ± 6.7 cm, body mass 91.6 ± 8.9 kg, training experience of 7.5 ± 3.5 years. Each volleyball player performed coaching test consisting of three block jumps and three spike jumps, and laboratory test consisting of three counter-movement jump (CMJ) and three spike jump (SPJ) performed on force plate. The mean values obtained by the competitors in the coaching test were: height in block jump 61.5±8.8 cm, height in spike jump 81.1±10.3 cm, and laboratory test: the height of rise of the body’s centre of mass in the CMJ 52.2±5.4 cm and SPJ 63.8 ±8.0 cm. Significant relationship were found between maximal power output in CMJ, SPJ performed on force plate and height of jump obtained during laboratory and coaching tests. In conclusion, height of jumps measured in coaching test significantly differ from the height of rise of the body’s centre of mass measured in jumps on force plate (laboratory tests). Significant relationship were found between maximal power output in CMJ, SPJ performed on force plate and height of jump obtained during laboratory and coaching tests. No relationship were found between the one’s grasp measured in jump of coaching test and the power output obtained in CMJ, SPJ (laboratory test).