Optimizing Physical Performance During the Competitive Season for Female Handball Players: A Comparative Study on the Effects of High-Load Strength Training versus Power and Plyometric Training

Purpose: The present study aimed to compare the effects of high-load strength training and low-load power and plyometric training on explosive performance measures in in-season female handball players. Methods: Thirty-one sub-elite handball players (age, 20±3 years; height, 70±6 cm; weight, 68±11 kg) were randomly assigned to a high-load (weekly: 5-20 sets ≥80% of 1RM per muscle group) or low-load power and plyometric training group (power-plyo) (13 sets ≤50% of 1RM and 165 bodyweight jumps). Training sessions were performed biweekly and supervised once per week for 12-weeks. Pre- and post-measurements were countermovement jump (CMJ) height, single-leg vertical jump-and-reach, standing- and…