The physical determinants and perceptual demands of trampoline performance: implications for strength training to augment time of flight

Dyas, Natalie (2023) The physical determinants and perceptual demands of trampoline performance: implications for strength training to augment time of flight. Doctoral thesis, Northumbria University.

Text (Doctoral thesis) dyas.natalie_phd(18041393).pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Repository staff only until 27 April 2026. Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Trampolining is an Olympic discipline involving routines consisting of complex acrobatic skills, underpinned by the ability to maximally jump on a trampoline. The demands and determinants of trampolining are poorly understood. Time of flight is an objective constituent part of the trampoline scoring system and is assessed in training by maximal jump tests. The aim of this thesis was to investigate the physical determinants of trampolining pertaining to maximal time of flight and give insight into the physical demands of trampolining. Chapter 3 gave insight from the gymnast and coach perspective into the physical demands of elite trampolining, with a number of key themes emerging such as the suitability of maximal jump tests and the need for linking off bed tests and trampoline performance. Chapter 4 assessed the reliability of a trampoline specific maximal jump test, whereby the 20-maximum was determined to have excellent test-retest reliability for time of flight values. In chapter 5 the determinants of trampoline performance, specifically 20-maximum time of flight were investigated. F0, the maximal isometric capabilities of the lower limbs, predicted 72% of the variability in 20-maximum time of flight between senior gymnasts. Countermovement jump height also exhibited very strong and strong correlations with 20-maximum time of flight in senior and junior gymnasts, respectively. Chapter 6 assessed the effects of a 6-week bespoke isometric training intervention in youth level trampoline gymnasts. Joint specific maximal isometric exercises significantly improved 20-maximum time of flight compared to a control group, with improvements in isometric peak force values also observed in the intervention group. Overall, this thesis gives insight into the determinants of time of flight and demands of elite level trampolining. Coaches, gymnasts, and practitioners will benefit from the application of the knowledge developed in this thesis to enhance physical qualities to optimise time of flight.

Actions (login required)

View Item

Downloads