The Effect That Side Dominance Has on Barbell Power Symmetry During the Hang Power Clean

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine whether ground reaction force (GRF) side differences were transmitted and related to bar end power output asymmetries during hang power clean (HPC) performance and whether progressive loading would intensify this effect. Differences between the dominant (D) and nondominant (ND) side average GRFs (AGRFs) of both feet and average bar end power outputs were recorded simultaneously from 15 recreationally trained male volunteers at 30, 60, and 90% 1RM using 2 force platforms and 3 high-speed digital cameras, quantifying side dominance from perceived handedness (left- or right-side dominance [LRSD]), GRF side dominance (force side dominance [FSD]), and bar end power output side dominance (barbell side dominance [BSD]). With the exception of the LRSD condition, differences between the D and ND side AGRFs were significant (FSD: 1.8-4.3%; BSD: 5.1-6.4%, p < 0.05). Bar end power output side differences were significant for all conditions (LRSD: 1.5-5.4%; FSD: 0.5-3.4%; BSD: 3.9-5.6%, p < 0.05). Progressive loading did not significantly affect GRF side differences or the FSD average bar power side differences. However, during the LRSD and BSD conditions, the 60 and 90% side average bar power side differences were >the 30% equivalents. Average GRF side differences were not related to bar end power output side differences. Because of the consistent side difference of 4-6% investigators and strength and conditioning practitioners should exercise caution when interpreting changes in bar end power output.