Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part J (2025)

The study aimed to compare the effects of plyometric and complex training on core strength, lower limb power, upper limb power, and overall athletic performance in male cricketers. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with participants assigned to either a plyometric training group or a complex training group for a period of eight weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were performed to evaluate core stability, vertical jump height, sprint performance, and throwing velocity. Results indicated that both training modalities led to significant improvements in all measured outcomes; however, the plyometric training group showed greater enhancements in lower limb explosive power and vertical jump performance, while the complex training group demonstrated comparatively higher gains in upper limb power and core stability. The findings suggest that plyometric training is particularly effective for improving explosive lower body movements, whereas complex training offers broader benefits that include upper body strength and core stabilization. These results have practical implications for designing sport-specific conditioning programs for cricket players and other athletes requiring a combination of power, strength, and agility. Overall, targeted training interventions can optimize performance outcomes based on the specific demands of the sport and the athlete’s performance goals.