Associations Between Jump Performance, Speed, and COD Abilities in Young Elite Volleyball Players

Abstract

This study examined the relationships between lower-body power, linear speed, and change of direction (COD) speed in young elite volleyball players. A sample of participants (N = 36) consisting of elite male volleyball players (age: 15.44 ± 2.02 years; height: 180.83 ± 10.08 cm; weight: 70.38 ± 10.97 kg) was measured in jump performance, speed, and COD abilities. Jump performance was assessed via squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and CMJ with arm swing (CMJA), while speed and COD abilities were measured using 5 m, 10 m, and 15 m sprints, and the t-test, 9-6-3-6-9, and 505 agility tests, respectively. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed powerful positive correlations among jump tests (e.g., CMJ and SJ: r = 0.955, p < 0.001), indicating a shared underlying construct identified as explosive power. Jump performance showed moderate to strong negative correlations with sprint times (e.g., CMJA and 10 m sprint: r = −0.675, p < 0.001) and COD times (e.g., CMJ and t-test: r = −0.618, p < 0.001), suggesting that greater power enhances acceleration and agility. Sprint and COD tests were strongly interrelated (e.g., 10 m sprint and t-test: r = 0.719, p < 0.001), highlighting their interdependence. These findings underscore the significant role of lower-body power in volleyball-specific movements, such as rapid sprints and directional changes. Practically, enhancing jump performance through targeted training could improve speed and COD abilities, aiding coaches in player selection and conditioning. Further research is needed to explore these relationships across diverse populations and over time.