Abstract

AimsWe analysed the changes in force-velocity-power variables and jump performance in response to an individualized training program based on the force-velocity imbalance (FVimb). In particular, we investigated (i) the individual adaptation kinetics to reach the optimal profile and (ii) de-training kinetics over the three weeks following the end of the training program.MethodsSixty subjects were assigned to four sub-groups according to their initial FVimb: high or low force-deficit (FD) and high or low velocity-deficit (VD). The duration of training intervention was set so that each individual reached their “Optimal force-velocity (F-v) profile”. Mechanical and performance variables were measured every 3 weeks during the program, and every week after the end of the individualized program.ResultsAll subjects in the FD sub-groups showed extremely large increases in maximal theoretical force output (+30±16.6% Mean±SD; ES = 2.23±0.28), FVimb reduction (-74.3±54.7%; ES = 2.17±0.27) and large increases in jump height (+12.4±7.6%; ES = 1.45±0.23). For the VD sub-groups, we observed moderate to extremely large increases in maximal theoretical velocity (+15.8±5.1%; ES = 2.72±0.29), FVimb reduction (-19.2±6.9%; ES = 2.36±0.35) and increases in jump height (+10.1±2.7%; ES = 0.93±0.09). The number of weeks needed to reach the optimal F-v profile (12.6 ± 4.6) was correlated to the magnitude of initial FVimb (r = 0.82, p<0.01) for all participants regardless of their initial subgroup. No significant change in mechanical variables or jump performance was observed over the 3-week de-training period.ConclusionsCollectively, these results provide useful insights into a more specific, individualized (i.e. based on the type and magnitude of FVimb) and accurate training prescription for jumping performance. Considering both training content and training duration together with FVimb may enable more individualized, specific and effective training monitoring and periodization.

Highlights

  • The ability to perform ballistic muscle contractions during jumps, sprints or changes of direction determines performance in numerous sport activities and corresponds to the ability to reach the highest velocity in the shortest time with ones own body mass

  • All subjects in the FD sub-groups showed extremely large increases in maximal theoretical force output (+30±16.6% Mean±SD; effect sizes (ES) = 2.23±0.28), force-velocity imbalance (FVimb) reduction (-74.3±54.7%; ES = 2.17±0.27) and large increases in jump height (+12.4±7.6%; ES = 1.45±0.23)

  • Ballistic performance such as jumping has been shown to be largely determined by the maximal power output (Pmax) that the lower limbs can generate [6,7], but it is influenced by the individual combination of the underlying capabilities to produce force at low and high velocities, known as the force-velocity (F-v) profile [5,8,9]

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Summary

Introduction

The ability to perform ballistic muscle contractions during jumps, sprints or changes of direction determines performance in numerous sport activities and corresponds to the ability to reach the highest velocity in the shortest time with ones own body mass It is clearly determined by high levels of force, power, and the velocity produced during the push-off phase [1,2,3,4] and so is directly related to the mechanical properties of the neuromuscular system, and notably to power capabilities [5]. The measurement of individual F-v relationships and their contribution to ballistic performance may provide a more accurate and integrative mechanical representation of athletes’ maximal force production capabilities [5] It is important since they encompass the entire F-v spectrum, from the theoretical maximal force that can be produced at null velocities (F0, force qualities) to the theoretical maximal velocity up to which force can be produced (v0, velocity qualities) [9]. This may lead to more individualized and effective training programs [9,10]

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