The influence of calculation method and relative strength on the load-velocity relationship in bench press exercise

Abstract

Purpose The objective of this study was: (1) to compare the effect of the calculation method using average (Avalue), and best value (Bvalue) of Mean Propulsive Velocity (MPV) on the Load Velocity Profile (LVprofile) during the barbell bench press exercise in elite handball players. In addition, (2) to analyze the relationship between the individual coefficient of variation (CVind) of an incremental load protocol in the bench press exercise with relative strength (Frel) in professional handball players. Methods Nineteen elite international handball players (age 18 [±1] y; body mass 93 [±14] kg; height 191 [±6] cm) performed an incremental test during the barbell bench press exercise. General and individual LVprofile, Frel, and CVind were modelled through MPV and two calculation models (Avalue, vs Bvalue). Results There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between both conditions (Bvalue vs. Avalue). There was an inverse relationship between the Frel and the CVind (r = −0.66, p < 0.001). When CVind was >10% significant differences were found between the two calculations method (Avalue, vs Bvalue). However, no significant differences were found between Avalue, vs Bvalue when the CVind was <10%. Conclusions The calculation method used to assess the barbell bench press LVprofile impacts the nature of the relationship. Regardless CVind values, Avalue is a good choice to determine the LVprofile when the CVind is >10%, if the CVind is <10%, Bvalue will be the better option to determine the LVprofile.