Isawall Athletes Part 3: Specific Exercises For Specific Results: Volleyball
In the first of this series we took a look at some of the general principals regarding Isawall’s ability to improve athletic performance. We then took a look at the specific sports of boxing and golf and the respective exercises that can be utilized to improve performance in those sports. Next we’ll take a look at the sport of volleyball and how athletes can directly improve their performance using Isawall.
The Plyometric Platform by Isawall is an extremely valuable platform from which to improve vertical jump. There are many tools in the fitness market to improve vertical jump, however much of this equipment has inherently flawed design.
The Isawall Plyometric Platform is designed to initiate resistance from the very lowest phase of a jump and increase as the athlete proceeds through the concentric phase of the movement. With Isawall, resistance begins before the athlete even begins the eccentric phase of the motion, continues during the brief amortization phase of the motion, and then provides resistance during the concentric phase or actual jumping portion of the exercise.
At no point does the athlete experience a lag in resistance, which is different from some other pieces of equipment used to improve vertical max. The plyometric platform from Isawall can be adjusted for athletes in several ways to best suit the abilities, height, and goals of each individual. So let’s take a look at how adjustments can be made for each individual.
First, the plyometric platform can be adjusted for height. There are numerous insertion points on the platform itself. This allows the user to lower or heighten the resistance to accommodate for height. This is also one means by which the exercise can be adjusted for in terms of resistance. Wider insertion points can be set for shorter individuals and/or to increase the level of resistance.
Secondly, the bands themselves can be changed out to accommodate differing levels of intensity. The switch can done quickly and easily, and bands can be replaced when necessary due to normal wear and tear. Most bands if used properly should last years, and the Isawall Plyometric Platform can use bands made by numerous different manufacturers.
Once in athlete has chosen the desired spacing for the insertion points and the bands needed, he or she is ready to go with the actual exercises.
Increasing The Vertical Jump For Volleyball
Being able to jump high and with quick explosive power is imperative in a sport like volleyball. With the Plyometric Platform from Isawall, a volleyball player can incorporate resistance vertical jump training into their overall performance training.
There are two excellent means by which the volleyball player can improve their performance. First, the player can focus solely on the vertical jump by using the resistance bands, the Plyometric Platform and the resistance belt. By engaging in jumping exercises utilizing this system, the body will adapt the resistance by increasing force output at high velocity; or simply creating a high and powerful jump when there is no added resistance.
The second way that volleyball players can utilize Isawall for increased performance is to use bands attached to hand straps. The player than simulates overhead arm movement that is identical to returning or passing the ball during game play. The exercise with resistance bands is done at high velocity to improve the explosive speed and power utilized throughout gameplay.
The two above mentioned exercises can be combined to create the perfect exercise for explosive speed and power. To do this, the player attaches bands to the Plyometric Board and also attaches the bands and hand straps. The combination of jumping and overhead movement with resistance creates a powerful training tool for volleyball players. The result is a more power jump and passing or returning movement.
If you play volleyball or have a team that that you work with, consider adding the Isawall Plyometric Platform to your training. The increased vertical jump may be just the thing your team members need to propel you to a higher level of success.
Paul Owens is a personal trainer in the Cleveland area. He is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the National Council on Strength and fitness. He is also a Corrective Exercise Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He can be reached at http://www.clevelandpersonaltraining.com
