High-Intensity Workout Trend: 4 Health Benefits Of Plyometric Exercise

Have you heard of plyometric exercises? The workouts — sometimes called simply “plyo” — involve a lot of jumping, which simultaneously builds strength and stretches your muscles.

According to WebMD, plyometrics used to be called "jump training,” and typically includes a series of leaps and hops — like jump squats or one-leg hops.

Read: Is This The Best Workout For Women? Strength Training Could Offer More Health Benefits, Study Says

“If you are in good shape and looking to ramp up your workout, then you may enjoy the challenge of plyometrics. It's a great way to train if you are into high-impact sports that involve a lot of running or jumping, like tennis, skiing, or basketball,” Dr. Melinda Ratini told WebMD.

“When you're getting started, work with an experienced trainer who can show you how to safely jump and land,” she advised.

Practicing plyometric exercises does come with a high risk of injury, Livestrong.com reported. Additionally, the repetitive jumping and bounding can cause stress on the joints. We’ve listed some body benefits that come hand-in-hand with plyo, if it's done right.

IMPROVES FLEXIBILITY

Contracting and stretching your muscles, which naturally occurs during plyo, is great for flexibility.

INCREASES STRENGTH

Different plyo exercises will strengthen different parts of the body.

According to Livestrong.com, tuck jumps, squat jumps, box jumps and depth jumps will make your lower body stronger. Want a more powerful upper body? Try incorporating clapping pushups, medicine ball chest press throw and overhead throws.

Read: Workout Trends 2017: 'Switch' Up Your Routine With Full-Body Workout From South Africa

IT’S FREE

This workout is really easy to do outside in the park. Have a bench at home? Great! If not, plyometrics can still be practiced with scissor jumps, dot agility workouts, and more.