Objectives: To examine the effects of a combined eccentric overload and aquatic-based plyometric training program on muscle function/performance measures and soreness versus an eccentric-only training protocol using a minimal dose training paradigm.
Methods: Twenty-five participants were randomized into either an eccentric-only training group (ECC) or a combined eccentric and aquatic plyometric group (ECC + AQP). The ECC group performed eccentric training once per week for 6-weeks while the ECC + AQP group performed the same eccentric training but with an additional aquatic plyometric training session.
Results: There was no group × trial interactions for any of the variables. However, the training elicited large improvements in eccentric strength in both ECC (27%; ES = 1.33) and ECC+AQP (17%; ES = .86) groups. Isometric strength improved moderately for ECC and ECC+AQP groups (17.2%, ES = .53;9%, ES = .45). A moderate increase was observed for depth jump height for both ECC and ECC+AQP groups (13.1%, ES = .48;8.8%, ES = .36). No changes were observed for countermovement jump or sprint time and muscle soreness did not differ between groups.
Conclusions: Minimal dose multi-joint eccentric overload training improved strength and depth jump outcomes after 6-weeks regardless of the training condition but adding a minimal dose aquatic plyometric protocol does not improve muscle function-based outcomes.
Keywords: Muscle Soreness; Muscle Strength; Sprint Speed; Strength Training; Vertical Jump.