A Plyo Box or plyometric box is a sturdy box that most gyms have. The Plyo boxes are designed for and aimed at increasing speed, power, coordination, and explosiveness – all with the help of exercises including just the box and no additional equipment. Not only for active exercising, but they are also a great supplement to your regular strength training routine.
I have talked about including Plyo boxes in your workout. Its advantages, among others, include:
- Increased Strength
- Cardio Endurance
- Fat Loss
- Toned Leg Muscles
- Increased Speed
- Better Coordination
So, let?s talk about some easy exercises that you can do with the help of a Plyo box.
Step-Ups
- Stand in front of the box – to add more support you can rest the box against the wall. But, there is no need because the boxes are sturdily built as they are supposed to be able to take your weight.
- Step onto the box with one leg.
- Bring the other leg up on the box as well.
- Stand up straight with both legs on the box.
- Step back down bringing the leg, that went up first, down first.
- Take a step back and repeat the process with the opposite leg going up first.
If you want to elevate the exercise, you can also add weight to the routine by holding dumbbells or kettlebells. Keep the weight even in both hands. As your strength endurance starts increasing, you can add more weight.
Box Jumps
- Stand in front of the Plyo box.
- Jump on the box with both feets landing at the same time.
- You can either step down or jump down.
- Repeat.
Box jumps are targeted to increase leg strength and power. It conditions your leg muscle. I would recommend stepping back down in the beginning and once you get used to it, you can start jumping back down as well.
Elevated Push-Ups
1. Easier Version
- Place your hands on the box and plant your feet on the floor.
- Complete your pushup routine this way.
- Remember to keep your core tight and elbows close to your body so that your body can move in a straight line when going down toward the box.
2. Challenging Version
- Place your feet on the box and plant your hands on the floor.
- Complete your pushup routine this way.
The second one is more challenging because the plank position is involved in the push-up routine, which can put more strain on your core. Once you can easily do the slightly easier version, you can take on the challenging one.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the easiest exercises, that you can do with the Plyo box, without any guidance perse because they are pretty straight forward. Just take care of your form and you are good to go. These will help you build up strength and stamina.
If you get one for your home, you can get an intense core workout done at home as well. It is one of the pieces that are worth investing in and doesn?t even take much space.
