What is the first stage in the plyometric teaching progression?

In the plyometric teaching progression, the first stage is landing. This foundational element is crucial because it helps individuals learn how to absorb force effectively upon landing, which is essential for preventing injury and establishing proper movement patterns. Focusing on landing mechanics lays the groundwork for more advanced plyometric exercises.

By mastering landing, athletes develop skills such as balance and stability, which are necessary for executing subsequent plyometric movements safely and effectively. When individuals practice landing techniques, they learn to control their body position, distribute their weight properly, and maintain proper alignment, which are all critical to plyometric training.

The other stages, while important in their own right, build on the ability to land correctly. For example, jump ups and short responses involve dynamic movements that require a solid understanding of how to land safely. The stabilization response is more about reinforcing core and joint stability, which also depends on having sound landing mechanics.