Efectos del uso de la realidad virtual sobre la plataforma inestable ICAROS® en la capacidad de salto vertical de estudiantes universitarios

The use of virtual reality and unstable platforms in sports has recently gained interest due to its potential to improve physical performance by simulating different environments. In this sense, it is necessary to investigate the effects of high-intensity training using virtual reality on an unstable platform on the strength of the lower extremities, therefore the objective was to determine the acute effect of a virtual reality session with an unstable platform on repetitive jumps in university students. The research involved a sample of 268 university students divided into three groups. Lower limb strength was assessed by jumping, both PRE and POST. Differences in squat jump (SJ) height were observed within the three groups (F=39.32; p<0.001; d=0.217). Differences were also observed in the counter movement jump (CMJ) (F=11.67; p<0.001; d=0.076). There were no differences in Abalakov's jump height (ABALA) between groups (F=8.73; p<0.001; d=0.058). However, there were no differences between groups before and after the intervention (p<0.05). High-intensity virtual reality exercise on an unstable platform improved strength and jumping ability in college students compared to similar exercise on a stable surface. However, the ICAROS group did not show significant improvements in jump height, although they did reduce the time between certain jumps on the unstable platform. These results are related to the phenomenon of post-activation potentiation (PAP) after intense exercise. In conclusion, this study suggests that high-intensity exercise using virtual reality on an unstable platform can improve lower limb strength in college students. These findings highlight the potential of virtual reality as an innovative tool in sports training.