Drop sets effects on maximum dynamic strength, jumping ability and acceleration in female basketball players

The aim of this research was to quantify the effects of the inclusion of drop set training (DS) on maximum dynamic strength (1RM) in back squat, jump ability (CMJ) and speed (10 m) in female basketball players. For this purpose, 25 participants (22.59 +/- 3.73 years) of two amateur teams were examined in three times: initial assessment (T0), after six weeks of traditional lower limbs strength training without DS (T1), and after an additional six weeks incorporating DS training (T2). Only the performance in the CMJ test was significantly influenced by the training program (p = .001; eta p(2) = .376). Post-hoc test identified statistical differences from 1RM: T0-T1 (p = .001), T0-T2 (p = .001) and T1-T2 (p = .001). Differences were also identified in CMJ between T0T1 (p = .001) and T0-T2 (p = .001), and in 10 m between T0 and T2 (p = .05). These results suggest that, despite the supposed low efficacy of DS training compared to traditional training in improving performance in jumping and acceleration capacities, both can be complementary within a training program, as the effects produced are maintained.