Plyometric boxes lend much variety to workouts. According to Joshua Lewis, American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, using plyometric boxes of different heights greatly increases the variety of exercises possible as well as allows for the growth and adaptation of the user. Commercially manufactured plyometric boxes, especially when purchased in sets, can be very expensive. Once thought to be the exclusive equipment of athletes, personal trainers and other fitness professionals are introducing plyometric boxes to the non-athlete community as a way to improve functional strength, says Lewis.
Step 1
Determine the measurement of the size of the box to be built. Commercially manufactured plyometric boxes typically range from 6 inches to 5 feet in height.
Step 2
Purchase a 4-foot x 8-foot, 3/4-inch thick sheet of plywood. This size sheet will easily yield the necessary pieces.
Step 3
Sketch the shapes of the panels on the plywood. Carefully measure each sketch to ensure proper sizing and fitting. In the case of a 12-inch box, four 10.5-inch x 12 inch panels are needed as well as two 12-inch square panels.
Step 4
Cut the plywood panels using a table saw or circular saw. Cut the sides of the panels to 90-degrees.
Step 5
Drill together the four side panels using 1 1/4-inch drywall screws and wood glue. Increase the durability of the box by using four to seven screws per panel.
Step 6
Drill and glue one of the top platforms into place. Once the first platform is secured with screws and glue, drill into place the second top platform over the first. The duplication of the top platforms will increase the durability and stability of the box.
Step 7
Sand all edges until smooth with fine grit sandpaper. The sanded edges will prevent splintering and chance of injury.
Tips and Warnings
- For better storage and easier transport, use a jigsaw to cut two handle holes on opposite sides of the box. For improved traction and shock absorption, use rubber cement to glue a 12-inch x 12-inch piece of rubber matting to the top of the box.
Things You'll Need
- 1, 4-foot x 8-foot sheet of 3/4-inch plywood
- Wood glue
- 12-inch ruler
- Table saw or circular saw
- Drill with screwdriver bit
- Fine grit sandpaper
References
- Crossfit Journal Articles: Plyo Box with Slanted Sides
- Joshua Lewis; American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer; University Health Systems
- Power Systems: Power-Ply Box Starter Set
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