The The Effect of Jumping Step Up Training on Improving the Rhythm of Long Jump Takeoff of Elementary School Students

Abstract

This study aims to determine the effect of jumping step-up training on increasing the takeoff rhythm in the long jump of elementary school students. Takeoff rhythm is a very important technical component because it determines the effectiveness of energy transfer from the run-up phase to the takeoff and jump phases. This study used an experimental method with a one-group pretest–posttest design with 19 elementary school students participating in physical education. The research instrument was a long jump skills test that assessed the accuracy of the takeoff rhythm, while treatment was given through jumping step-up training for eight meetings with structured intensity. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test to determine differences in results before and after treatmentThe results of the study showed a significant increase in the ability of the push-off rhythm after being given jumping step-up training. This increase is related to the increase in strength and explosive power of the leg muscles, motor coordination, rhythmic control of steps, and students' confidence when doing push-offs. Jumping step-up training is also suitable for the characteristics of elementary school students because the movements are simple, repetitive, and safe to do. Thus, jumping step-up can be recommended as an effective alternative plyometric exercise in physical education learning to improve the push-off rhythm and long jump performance of elementary school students.