ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the exercise prescription for speed, quickness, agility, and plyometrics and both mechanical and neuromuscular aspects of training for speed, quickness, agility, and plyometrics. It presents the components of a sprint training program with the phases of linear sprinting and different progressions and variations of speed, quickness, agility, and plyometric exercises. The chapter provides an overview of the stretch shortening cycle (SSC) and describes factors that impact SSC efficiency. In performing exercises that involve SSC, there are several factors that can impact the enhancement of force or power output of the movement. Moving from the ground to the air and back down to the ground can be accomplished by three major movement patterns – jumping, leaping, and hopping. The human body is designed for angular motion around joints, which causes linear motion of the center of gravity of the body.
