NZ Manufacturing, Inc., a leader in high-quality resistance training and physical rehabilitation tools, responds to a three-year study that names volleyball as the eighth most injury-prone sport for 14- through 20-year olds¹. Its primary recommendation is to include resistance training as a key element in any well-structured volleyball program. Resistance training improves players’ maximal force and power production, reduces the incidence of injury, and contributes to faster injury recovery times.

With 63% of volleyball injuries being related to jumping², NZ Manufacturing specifically recommends its TurfCordz™ Jump Belt. The Jump Belt strengthens leg muscles used to jump explosively off the ground in order to spike, block, set and dive. The repetitive nature of the Jump Belt also increases power endurance. The product features an adjustable cam buckle closure belt that fits up to a 36-inch (90-cm) waist and two 30-inch (75-cm) rubber tubes connected to foot straps. It is available in silver, yellow, green, red and blue resistance levels. NZ Manufacturing also suggests the following to injury-prevention activities:

  • Perform “prehabilitation” exercises. Compared to skill training that makes specific body parts stronger, prehabilitation exercises help avoid injuries during intense pre-season workouts or in-season games. Work on the muscular imbalances of critical body parts, like shoulders and knees.
  • Perform various exercises for each muscle group. If the same strength type or exercises are repeated for a long length of time, muscles get used to them and develop slower. Change your exercises up so that muscles get “upset” and react by getting stronger or faster.
  • Practice sport-specific movements. Include exercises and programs that mimic actual volleyball games. This will help hone and perfect exact sport-specific skills required for game time. Most importantly, volleyball players need to find ways to have fun during practice sessions.

The more enjoyment they have while training, the more effectively they can increase strength and prevent future injury. NZ Manufacturing is based in Tallmadge, Ohio. For more information on the company, the TurfCordz™ Jump Belt product, or the other StrechCordz® or MediCordz® product lines, please call 1-800-886-6621 or email info@nzmfg.com.

Sources: 1. De Loe¨s M. Epidemiology of sports injuries in the Swiss organization ”Youth and Sports” 1987-1989: injuries, exposures and risks of main diagnosis. Int J Sports Med 1995;16:134-8. 2. Gerberich, S.G., Luhmann, S., Finke, C., Priest, J.D. and Beard, B.J. 1987. Analysis of severe injuries associated with volleyball activities. The Physician and Sportsmedicine. 15 (8): 75-79.