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Study note

Effects of Plyometric Training on Soft and Hard Surfaces for Improving Running Economy.

PMID 34400998 (2021): ground reaction — Running economy (study note for endurance athletes).

Updated Jul 22, 2026

Read the study note

Study note • PMID 34400998

Effects of Plyometric Training on Soft and Hard Surfaces for Improving Running Economy.

Journal of human kinetics2021 • DOI 10.2478/hukin-2021-0071

How to use this page

This note summarizes one study record. Check the participants, methods, results, and limitations before applying it to training.

  • Design signal: controlled study.
  • Population relevance: mixed/unclear athlete specificity.
  • Consistency: single-study evidence.
  • Practical recommendation depends on tolerance, context, and whether it protects training consistency.

ELI5

In plain language

The present study investigated the effects of plyometric jump training on hard and soft surfaces on running economy (RE), maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2max)), running performance and the rate of… (controlled study; participants).

The abstract doesn’t indicate a clear change in Running economy under the tested conditions. Treat this as a signal, not a guarantee; confirm methods and context in the full paper.

Takeaways

What the abstract suggests

  • Study question: The present study investigated the effects of plyometric jump training on hard and soft surfaces on running economy (RE), maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2max)), running performance and the rate of…
  • The abstract doesn’t indicate a clear change in Running economy under the tested conditions.
  • Population: participants.
  • Protocol cues (title/abstract): 4 weeks.

Protocol

Protocol (as reported)

  • Intervention/exposure: ground reaction.
  • Dose/time/duration cues in abstract/title: 4 weeks.
  • Outcomes: Running economy.
  • Replication note: abstracts often omit adherence and timing; confirm details before changing training or supplementation.

Fit

Who it may help, and who should be cautious

Who it helps

  • Athletes similar to the study population (participants) working on biomechanics.
  • Athletes who can measure Running economy with a repeatable workout or time-trial effort.

Who should be cautious

  • If you have symptoms or conditions that make the intervention risky, get professional guidance.
  • If you’re near race day and can’t safely test, defer the experiment.

Methods

What the study actually did

  • Design: controlled study.
  • Population: participants.
  • Outcomes measured: Running economy.
  • Protocol cues mentioned: 4 weeks.
  • Source: PubMed PMID 34400998 (2021) — Journal of human kinetics.

Results excerpt

What the abstract reports

These improvements were not explained by force development during drop jump tests, which remained unchanged following the intervention.

Note: excerpts are short; for full context, read the paper.

Limits

Limitations and bias

  • Abstract-only summaries can miss critical details (population, protocol, adherence, and context).
  • Single studies often don’t generalize to your event, history, and training load; treat results as a starting point.
  • If your context differs (elite vs recreational; cycling vs running), adjust expectations and be conservative.
  • This is performance information, not medical advice.

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Sources