No Differences in Kinetics between the Squat Jump, Push Press and Mid-Thigh Power Clean

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to determine the differences in kinetic data during the mid-thigh power clean, squat jump and push press. Trained individuals (n=11; age 23 ± 3.5 yrs; height 176.5 ± 5.56 cm; body mass 85.78 ± 14.29 kg) performed 1 set of 3 repetitions of the mid-thigh power cleans, squat jumps and push press, using 60% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) power clean, in a randomized order, while standing on a force platform. Peak vertical ground reaction forces (Fz), instantaneous rate of force development (RFD) and peak power output were compared between exercises, using a one way analysis of variance. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences in peak Fz, RFD or peak power output between exercises, although the greatest Fz and RFD were observed during the mid-thigh power clean, and the highest peak power was observed in the squat jump. From the findings of this study the peak Fz, RFD and peak power during the mid-thigh power clean, squat jump and push press, performed using 60% 1RM power clean, are comparable. If the focus of training is rapid force production under high load then the exercise that permits the greatest loading should be used, which is likely to be the squat jump.