Danijela Kuna, Nikolina Užnik, Ivan Paravac
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a 10-week plyometric training program on performance in speed climbing among children. The sample consisted of 32 participants (20 girls and 12 boys, aged 7–12 years), divided into an experimental group (n = 15), which performed additional plyometric training, and a control group (n = 17), which continued regular climbing training without plyometric exercises. Speed climbing performance was assessed using dual stopwatch timing and the Speed Climbing Stopwatch mobile application, while jumping ability and reaction time were measured using the Microgate Optogait system. The experimental group completed two weekly climbing sessions and two additional plyometric sessions focusing on lower-limb explosive strength and reactive ability. Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with effect sizes expressed as Cohen’s d.
The results demonstrated statistically significant improvements (p < .05) in the experimental group across multiple performance indicators. Speed climbing time decreased by 14.7%, accompanied by significant increases in countermovement jump height and reactive strength index, and a reduction in reaction time to auditory stimuli. The control group showed no significant changes. The calculated effect sizes indicated moderate to large practical effects for climbing time and jumping ability, confirming the efficacy of plyometric training in enhancing explosive performance.
These findings suggest that structured plyometric training effectively improves speed, power, and reaction in young climbers, making it a valuable supplement to standard climbing practice. The study highlights the importance of integrating plyometric exercises into youth climbing programs to optimize neuromuscular development and competitive performance.
Keywords: sport climbing, speed climbing, plyometrics, children
