Plyometrics, also named stretch-shortening cycle training, enable the muscles to reach maximum force in the shortest possible time and are therefore widely used by athletes in various sports to improve power performance. All movements in sports involve repeated bouts of stretch-shortening cycles and require a high rate of force development. Plyometrics will therefore besides improve a wide range of overall athletic abilities such as sprinting and jumping also enhance sports-related activities such as endurance performance, kicking velocity and distance. Plyometrics also play an important role in increased joint stability and injury prevention through an improved preparatory and reactive neuromuscular control. This topic gives an overview of the mechanisms behind the performance improvement and discusses different plyometric and ballistic exercises.