Skipping vs Bounding

Expert Discussion Plyos
1

Hi all…

So I realise I have an elasticity problem (or so I would think). My running vert/depth jump vert off a low box is equal or less than from standing.

One thing that I have found myself incapable of doing is alternate leg bounds. I can do skips for distance covering 10-11m in 3 skips from standing, but when I try to bound it takes me 5 alternate bounds to do the same. (I would never make it as a triple jumper) Part of me thinks this could be technique thing/tight hip flexor situation.

Anyway, are “power skips” beneficial for improving elasticity/stride length or should I be learning to bound?

2

Just bumping this up…

3

Maybe build up the skipping and start getting into bounds as your plyo’s improve. Start doing submax bounds from standing to get the technique.

4

I’ve wondered about this, too - especially with developing/high school athletes.

Bounding is very technical, skipping less so. In conversation the other day, I suggested that skipping for height and distance gives one most of the value of power bounding with only a fraction of the risk of injury and programming bad recruitment patterns.

Others?

5

i have noticed this as well. most of my hs kids cannot ALB, but they can power skip … so we just don’t mess with what we cannot do well.

6

Do whatever generates the elastic response you’re looking for. Leave the bounding for another day in the future if it isn’t working now.

7

there is a thread, (I believe KK’s famous “Lact” thread) that talks about skipping vs bounding.

I personally use power skips for newer athletes, less developed athletes as well as those that are succeptible to leg injuries.