Effect of Plyometric Jump Training on Vertical Jump Indicators and Performance-Related General Physical Fitness in Rugby Players: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION: Vertical jump performance is linked to key performance indicators in rugby, including tackling success and ruck involvement. Although plyometric jump training (PJT) is known to enhance explosive qualities in various sports, its specific effects in rugby remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: To synthesise evidence on the effects of PJT on vertical jump ability and other physical fitness components in adult rugby players. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, EBSCO (SPORTDiscus), WoS, and Scopus were searched up to December 2025. Experimental and quasi-experimental studies involving rugby players undertaking PJT programmes of at least two weeks, with at least one vertical jump outcome, were included. Two reviewers independently performed study selection and data extraction. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2.0 tool. RESULTS: Seven studies involving 178 male players were included. PJT improved sprint speed, change of direction, anaerobic power, reactive strength, lower-limb stiffness, and isometric plantar flexion strength. Gains in countermovement jump power were noted in some conditions, such as training on softer surfaces. However, improvements in jump height were inconsistent. CONCLUSION: PJT enhances several important physical qualities in rugby players but shows variable effects on vertical jump height. Further high-quality research is needed.