Introduction: Strength and power are important components of muscular performance, influencig sports performance and daily activities. Resistance training and plyometric training are used to develop these components; however, it remains unclear which is more effective for simultaneously improving both. Purpose: Through a literature review comparing plyometric and resistance training, the thesis aimed to determine, whether the two approaches differ in their effects on muscle strength and power and to assess which is more effective. Methods: A descriptive method with a systematic literature review was used. The literature search was conducted in PubMed using the keywords “resistance training” OR “strength training” AND “plyometric training”. Results: Six randomized controlled trials were included, comprising two experimental groups: a resistance training group and a plyometric training group. Some studies included a comparison group, which performed regular soccer training in three studies and no training in one. Training programs lasted four to 12 weeks and were performed two to three times per week. Regarding muscle strength, resistance training resulted in statistically significant greater improvements in the half squat in two studies compared with plyometric training and the comparison group. In other two studies, comparable improvements in isometric and isokinetic muscle strength were observed in both experimental groups. Regarding muscle power, both plyometric and resistance training resulted in statistically significant improvements in vertical jump height within groups and compared with the comparison group in four studies. Plyometric training was more effective in improving peak power output and jump height in two studies, whereas resistance training was more effective in improving jump height in one study. Discussion and conclusion: Resistance training is more appropriate when the primary goal is to increase muscle strength, whereas both forms of training are effective for developing muscle power. When the goal is to simultaneously improve muscle strength and power, the results do not allow one method to be clearly identified as more effective. Considering the more frequent improvements in muscle strength following resistance training and its comparable effects on muscle power, resistance training may be a slightly more appropriate choice. Further research is needed for more reliable conclusions.
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