Effects of combined resistance and plyometric training modalities on vertical jump and sprint: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE: Jump height and sprint speed are essential athletic qualities for explosive power-oriented sports. A growing body of evidence suggests that combined resistance training (RT) and plyometric training (PT) modalities are more effective than isolated RT or PT in enhancing vertical jump and sprint performance. However, the optimal modality remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different combined RT and PT modalities on vertical jump and sprint capacity. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across five databases (Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane) from inception to February 26, 2025, to identify English-language studies including combined RT and PT modalities. Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed using the “GeMTC” package in R v4.0.4. RESULTS: Thirty-four studies involving 1,057 participants were included. Compared to control group (CG), all combined RT and PT modalities and RT improved 20-meter sprint performance except for requiring completing all PT exercises before initiating RT (PT+RT) [mean difference (MD)＝0.01, 95% CI＝(－0.12, 0.04)]. Similarly, all combined RT and PT modalities and RT enhanced CMJ performance except for compound training (CTS) [MD＝3.40, 95% CI＝(－4.80, 12.00)]. Compared with RT, only complex training (CT) demonstrated significant improvements in CMJ height [MD＝2.50, 95% CI＝(0.85, 4.10)] and 20-meter sprint time reduction [MD＝－0.10, 95% CI＝(－0.18,－0.04)]. CONCLUSION: Combined RT and PT modalities, along with RT, improve CMJ and 20-meter sprint performance, with CT emerging as the most effective modality among these combined modalities for optimizing these outcomes.