Effect of foot intrinsic muscle strength training on jump performance

Fifteen subjects, 21-62 years old, participated in a 6-week toe flexor strengthening program using the archxerciser. Pre- and posttraining data for toe strength, vertical jump height simultaneously using the Just Jump and Vertec, and horizontal jump distance were collected for both control and exercise legs. Post hoc paired sample t-tests (p < 0.05) indicated significant improvement in all categories. This supported the hypothesis that the unconventional method of strength training the toe flexors should be considered a valuable adjunct in a training program designed to enhance vertical or horizontal jump ability. The relationship of different testing methods was also assessed. A Pearson correlation coefficient showed a significant (0.001 level) correlation when simultaneously using the Vertec and Just Jump to quantify vertical jump performance. A significant (0.01 level) correlation between individual performance in the vertical and horizontal jump was also identified. These results indicate that the tester is not restricted to a single testing device or method for assessment of jump performance.