Objective and Background: Gymnastics is a widely favored sport among children. Existing literature suggests that plyometric exercises, in conjunction with vitamin D supplementation, may influence performance metrics within this demographic. The primary objective of this study was to assess and compare the effects of plyometric training combined with vitamin D supplementation on select physical fitness and performance indicators in female gymnasts aged 12 to 15 years

Materials and Methods: A total of 30 female gymnasts, aged 12 to 15 years, were purposefully recruited for participation in this study and subsequently randomized into two distinct groups: one receiving plyometric training with vitamin D supplementation and the other receiving plyometric training without supplementation (15 participants in each group). The group receiving vitamin D supplementation consumed a 5000 IU capsule weekly, while the control group received a placebo. The training regimen spanned six weeks, incorporating three 90-minute sessions each week. Pre-tests and post-tests evaluated agility, flexibility, total body power, upper body muscular power, lower body muscular power, specific anaerobic power, explosive power, as well as a triple performance test and a specific performance test (GOT) tailored for gymnasts. Data were subjected to analysis using repeated measures ANOVA, with significance set at P<0.05.

Findings: The administration of vitamin D yielded a statistically significant enhancement in flexibility and lower body muscular power compared to the plyometric training group without vitamin D supplementation. No significant differences were identified between the two groups regarding improvements in additional physical fitness indicators (agility, total body power, upper body muscular power, specific anaerobic power, explosive power) or performance metrics (triple performance test, GOT performance test).

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that plyometric exercises alone can enhance performance in adolescent gymnasts aged 12 to 15 years. Furthermore, the incorporation of vitamin D supplementation alongside plyometric exercises may facilitate optimal improvements in flexibility and lower body muscular power among these athletes.