Force-velocity Profile Research Articles

The Effects of a 6-Week Unilateral Strength and Ballistic Jump Training Program on the Force-Velocity Profiles of Sprinting.

Bettariga, F, Maestroni, L, Martorelli, L, Turner, A, and Bishop, C. The effects of a 6-week unilateral strength and ballistic jump training program on the force-velocity profiles of sprinting. J Strength Cond Res 37(7): 1390-1396, 2023-The aims of this study were (a) to investigate the effects of a unilateral training program, compared with a control group, on a force-velocity (F-V) profile in soccer players and (b) to explore such effects on linear speed. Twenty-four soccer players, randomly assigned to a 6-week unilateral strength and ballistic jump training (UNI) ( n = 12) or a control group (CON) ( n = 12), performed 30-meter linear sprint test. Findings showed small-to-moderate improvements ( p < 0.05) in linear speed time ( g = 0.66-0.81) and in most F-V variables: maximal running velocity ( V0 ) ( g = 0 .81), maximal power output ( Pmax ) ( g = 0.49), maximal ratio of force ( RFmax ) ( g = 0.55), optimal velocity ( Vopt ) ( g = 0.83), and maximal speed ( g = 0.84) from pre- to post-intervention in the UNI group, whereas no meaningful changes were found in the CON group. The between-group comparison indicated small to large significant changes in V0 ( g = 0.95), RFmax ( g = 0.48), Vopt ( g = 0.95), maximal speed ( g = 0.98), and linear speed time performance ( g = 0.42-1.02), with the exception of the 0-5 meter distance, in favor of the UNI group. Thus, a unilateral strength and ballistic jump training program can be used to improve the F-V profile and linear speed performance of amateur soccer players.

The Concept of Optimal Dynamic Pedalling Rate and Its Application to Power Output and Fatigue in Track Cycling Sprinters-A Case Study.

Sprint races in track cycling are characterised by maximal power requirements and high-power output over 15 to 75 s. As competition rules limit the athlete to a single gear, the choice of gear ratio has considerable impact on performance. Traditionally, a gear favouring short start times and rapid acceleration, i.e., lower transmission ratios, was chosen. In recent years, track cyclists tended to choose higher gear ratios instead. Based on a review of the relevant literature, we aimed to provide an explanation for that increase in the gear ratio chosen and apply this to a 1000 m time trial. Race data with continuous measurements of crank force and velocity of an elite track cyclist were analysed retrospectively regarding the influence of the selected gear on power, cadence and resulting speed. For this purpose, time-dependent maximal force-velocity (F/v) profiles were used to describe changes in performance with increasing fatigue. By applying these profiles to a physical model of track cycling, theoretical power output, cadence and resulting speed were calculated for different scenarios. Based on previous research results, we assume a systematic and predictable decline in optimal cadence with increasing fatigue. The choice of higher gear ratios seems to be explained physiologically by the successive reduction in optimal cadence as fatigue sets in. Our approach indicates that average power output can be significantly increased by selecting a gear ratio that minimises the difference between the realised cadence and the time-dependent dynamic optimum. In view of the additional effects of the gear selection on acceleration and speed, gear selection should optimally meet the various requirements of the respective sprint event.

Microdosing Sprint Distribution as an Alternative to Achieve Better Sprint Performance in Field Hockey Players.

Introduction: The implementation of optimal sprint training volume is a relevant component of team sport performance. This study aimed to compare the efficiency and effectiveness of two different configurations of within-season training load distribution on sprint performance over 6 weeks. Methods: Twenty male professional FH players participated in the study. Players were conveniently assigned to two groups: the experimental group (MG; n = 11; applying the microdosing training methodology) and the control group (TG; n = 9; traditional training, with players being selected by the national team). Sprint performance was evaluated through 20 m sprint time (T20) m and horizontal force−velocity profile (HFVP) tests before (Pre) and after (Post) intervention. Both measurements were separated by a period of 6 weeks. The specific sprint training program was performed for each group (for vs. two weekly sessions for MG and TG, respectively) attempting to influence the full spectrum of the F-V relationship. Results: Conditional demands analysis (matches and training sessions) showed no significant differences between the groups during the intervention period (p > 0.05). No significant between-group differences were found at Pre or Post for any sprint-related performance (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, intra-group analysis revealed significant differences in F0, Pmax, RFmean at 10 m and every achieved time for distances ranging from 5 to 25 m for MG (p < 0.05). Such changes in mechanical capabilities and sprint performance were characterized by an increase in stride length and a decrease in stride frequency during the maximal velocity phase (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Implementing strategies such as microdosed training load distribution appears to be an effective and efficient alternative for sprint training in team sports such as hockey.

Force-velocity profile in sprinting: sex effect.

The ability to produce muscle power during sprint acceleration is a major determinant of physical performance. The comparison of the force-velocity (F-v: theoretical maximal force, F0; velocity, v0 and maximal power output, Pmax) profile between men and women has attracted little attention. Most studies of sex differences have failed to apply a scaling ratio when reporting data. The present study investigated the sex effect on the F-v profile using an allometric model applied with body mass (BM), fat-free mass (FFM), fat-free mass of the lower limb (FFMLL), cross-sectional area (CSA) and leg length (LL) to mechanical parameters. Thirty students (15 men, 15 women) participated. Raw velocity-time data for three maximal 35m sprints were measured with a radar. Mechanical parameters of the F-v relationship were calculated from the modelling of the velocity-time curve. When F0 and Pmax were allometrically scaled with BM (p = 0.538; ES = 0.23) and FFM (p = 0.176; ES = 0.51), there were no significant differences between men and women. However, when the allometric model was applied to Pmax with FFMLL (p = 0.015; ES = 0.52), F0 with CSA (p = 0.016; ES = 0.93) and v0 with LL (p ≤ 0.001; ES = 1.98) differences between men and women persisted. FFM explained 83% of the sex differences in the F-v profile (p ≤ 0.001). After applying an allometric model, sex differences in the F-v profile are explained by other factors than body dimensions (i.e., physiological qualitative differences).

Acute effects of different external compression with blood flow restriction on force-velocity profile during squat and bench press exercises

The aim was to compare the acute effects of bench press (BP) and squat (SQ) exercises with blood flow restriction (BFR) (40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of the complete arterial occlusion pressure (AOP)) and without BFR (CON) on the mean propulsive (VelMED) and maximum (VelMAX) bar velocity. Fourteen healthy, physically active males (age, 23.6 ± 4.1 years; height, 1.85 ± 0.11 m; body weight 85.4 ± 4.1 kg) took part in the study. There was one set for each testing condition (CON, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) with 6 repetitions for BP and 6 repetitions for SQ, at 60% of 1RM, and 3 minutes of recovery between sets. The results showed statistically significant differences of the sets with 80% BFR vs. CON (mean difference [MD] = 0.035 m · s-1, p < 0.05, ES = 0.52 [1.02-0.03]) and 100% BFR sets vs. CON (MD = 0.074, p < 0.001, ES = 1.08 [1.79-0.38]) for BP. In the SQ exercise, statistically significant differences were found between 100% BFR vs. CON (DM = 0.031 m · s-1, p < 0.05), vs. 100% BFR 40% (MD = 0.04 m · s-1, p < 0.05). Trend analysis showed a statistically significant linear trend (F[1,9] = 34.9, p < 0.001, F[1,13] = 27.32, p < 0.001) for the VelMED in relation to the different levels of BFR. In conclusion, our results showed that BFR levels above ˜80% AOP (BP) and ˜100% AOP (SQ) produce a VelMED improvement at 60% 1RM.

A Novel Approach to Determining the Alactic Time Span in Connection with Assessment of the Maximal Rate of Lactate Accumulation in Elite Track Cyclists.

Following short-term all-out exercise, the maximal rate of glycolysis is frequently assessed on the basis of the maximal rate of lactate accumulation in the blood. Since the end of the interval without significant accumulation (talac) is 1 of 2 denominators in the calculation employed, accurate determination of this parameter is crucial. Although the very existence and definition of talac, as well as the validity of its determination as time-to-peak power (tPpeak), remain controversial, this parameter plays a key role in anaerobic diagnostics. Here, we describe a novel approach to determination of talac and compare it to the current standard. Twelve elite track cyclists performed 3 maximal sprints (3, 8, and 12s) and a high-rate, low-resistance pedaling test on an ergometer with monitoring of crank force and pedaling rate. Before and after each sprint, capillary blood samples were taken for determination of lactate accumulation. Fatigue-free force-velocity and power-velocity profiles were generated. talac was determined as tPpeak and as the time point of the first systematic deviation from the force-velocity profile (tFf). Accumulation of lactate after the 3-second sprint was significant (0.58 [0.19]mmol L-1; P < .001, d = 1.982). tFf was <3seconds and tPpeak was ≥3seconds during all sprints (P < .001, d = - 2.111). Peak power output was lower than maximal power output (P < .001, d = -0.937). Blood lactate accumulation increased linearly with increasing duration of exercise (R2 ≥ .99) and intercepted the x-axis at ∼tFf. Definition of talac as tPpeak can lead to incorrect conclusions. We propose determination of talac based on tFf, the end of the fatigue-free state that may reflect the beginning of blood lactate accumulation.

Applications of near-infrared spectroscopy in "anaerobic" diagnostics - SmO2 kinetics reflect PCr dephosphorylation and correlate with maximal lactate accumulation and maximal pedalling rate.

We investigated the relationship of the time-dependent behaviour of muscle oxygen saturation SmO2(t), phosphagen energy supply WPCr(t) and blood lactate accumulation ΔBLC(t) during a 60-s all-out cycling sprint and tested SmO2(t) for correlations with the end of the fatigue-free state tFf, maximal pedalling rate PRmax and maximal blood lactate accumulation rate v̇Lamax. Nine male elite track cyclists performed four maximal sprints (3, 8, 12, 60 s) on a cycle ergometer. Crank force and cadence were monitored continuously to determine PRmax and tFf based on force-velocity profiles. SmO2 of the vastus lateralis muscle and respiratory gases were measured until the 30th minute after exercise. WPCr was calculated based on the fast component of the post-exercise oxygen uptake for each sprint. Before and for 30 minutes after each sprint, capillary blood samples were taken to determine the associated ΔBLC. Temporal changes of SmO2, WPCr and ΔBLC were analysed via non-linear regression analysis. v̇Lamax was calculated based on ΔBLC(t) as the highest blood lactate accumulation rate. All models showed excellent quality (R2 > 0.95). The time constant of SmO2(t) τSmO2 = 2.93 ± 0.65 s was correlated with the time constant of WPCr(t) τPCr = 3.23 ± 0.67 s (r = 0.790, p < 0.012), v̇Lamax = 0.95 ± 0.18 mmol · l-1 · s-1 (r = 0.768, p < 0.017) and PRmax = 299.51 ± 14.70 rpm (r = -0.670, p < 0.049). tFf was correlated with τSmO2 (r = 0.885, p < 0.001). Our results show a time-dependent reflection of SmO2 kinetics and phosphagen energy contribution during a 60-s maximal cycling sprint. A high v̇Lamax results in a reduction, a high PRmax in an increase of the desaturation rate. The half-life of SmO2 desaturation indicates the end of the fatigue-free state.

Changes in the Mechanical Properties of the Horizontal Force-Velocity Profile during a Repeated Sprint Test in Professional Soccer Players.

Seventeen first-division Chilean soccer players completed a repeated sprint protocol consisting of eight sprints of 30 m with 25-s pauses between repetitions. The behavior of HFVP variables in each attempt was recorded from video recordings and analysis in the MySprint® application. Differences (p < 0.05) were found between sprints in the following: time (T), starting from sprint 5 (F = 35.6; η2p = 0.69); theoretical maximum speed (V0), starting from sprint 4 (F = 29.3; η2p = 0.51); maximum power (PM), starting from sprint 5 (F = 17; η2p = 0.52); rate of decrease in force index produced at each step (DRF), starting from sprint 1 (F = 3.20; η2p = 0.17); and RF10, starting from sprint 1 (F = 15.5; η2p = 0.49). In comparison, F0 and RFpeak did not present any differences (p > 0.05). The HFVP variables more sensitive to the effects of fatigue induced by an RSA protocol are those associated with the production of force at high speeds, being V0, DRF, and Pmax, while those that contribute to the generation of force at the beginning of the sprint, F0 and RFpeak, do not present essential variations.

Predicting BMX Performance with Laboratory Measurements in Elite Riders

ABSTRACT In Bicycle Motocross (BMX) performance is determined by the riders’ sprint ability and power output. Therefore, descriptive and predictive performance assessments through laboratory and field tests are of interest. Twelve members of the Spanish BMX National Team performed 4 laboratory tests, including 1RM in squat, a Wingate test, a 5x6-s repeated sprint test (RST) and a force-velocity profile test. These tests were compared with the riders’ field performance using the best lap of a simulated BMX competition consisting of 6 all-out laps on a standard BMX track. Pearson’s correlation and linear regression analysis showed a significant association (p < 0.05) between the riders’ field performance and the 1RM (r = 0.84; R2 = 0.65), the peak power output in the RST (r = 0.87; R2 = 0.78) and the peak power, the mean power and the lactate production in the Wingate test (r = 0.68–0.77; R2 = 0.14–0.65), as well as maximal power from the force-velocity profile (r = 0.71; R2 = 0.53). The laboratory tests included in this study can show information about BMX riders’ performance, with the highest values for the peak power obtained in the repeated sprint test (78% of the variance in common).

The influence of short sprint performance, acceleration, and deceleration mechanical properties on change of direction ability in soccer players-A cross-sectional study.

The study investigated the relationship between short sprint performance and mechanical parameters obtained during the acceleration and deceleration tasks with the change of direction (COD) performance in female and male soccer players. The acceleration and deceleration ability were compared in the "High/Fast" versus "Low/Slow" COD performance group based on a median split analysis in each sex group. One hundred three French soccer players were assessed for the sprinting Force-Velocity (F-V) profile (i.e., theoretical maximal force [F0], velocity [V0], power [Pmax]), 10m performance, linear deceleration test (maximal braking force [HBFmax], braking power [BPmax], deceleration [Decmax]), and COD performance using 505-test. The 10m performance was strongly associated with 505-test performance (ES = [0.64 to 0.71]), whereas the sprinting F-V profiles parameters were weakly to moderately correlated with 505- performance (ES = [-0.47 to -0.38]). The BPmax was also moderately associated with 505-test performance (ES: range = [-0.55 to -0.46]). In addition, the High/Fast female COD group presented higher F0, Pmax, HBFmax, and BPmax than the Low/Slow group, whereas the male groups presented very few mechanical differences. Multiple regression analysis shows that the COD performance of male players was determined by 10m performance and maximum deceleration power. In contrast, no statistically significant model could be found to determine the change of direction performance in female players. In conclusion, the current finding indicated that the only variable strongly associated with COD performance was the linear 10m sprint time. In the same way, the mechanical parameters obtained from acceleration and deceleration seemed to play a non-neglectable role in this population.

Associations of maximum and reactive strength indicators with force-velocity profiles obtained from squat jump and countermovement jump.

Understanding the properties associated with the vertical force-velocity (F-v) profiles is important for maximizing jump performance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations of maximum and reactive strength indicators with the F-v profiles obtained from squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ). On the first day, 20 resistance-trained men underwent measurements for half squat (HSQ) one-repetition maximum (1RM). On the second day, jump performances were measured to calculate the drop jump (DJ) reactive strength index (RSI) and the parameters of F-v profiles (theoretical maximum force [F0], velocity [V0], power [Pmax], and slope of the linear F-v relationship [SFv]) obtained from SJ and CMJ. The DJ RSI was not significantly correlated with any parameter of the vertical F-v profiles, whereas the relative HSQ 1RM was significantly correlated with the SJ F0 (r = 0.508, p = 0.022), CMJ F0 (r = 0.499, p = 0.025), SJ SFv (r = -0.457, p = 0.043), and CMJ Pmax (r = 0.493, p = 0.027). These results suggest that maximum strength is a more important indicator than reactive strength in improving vertical F-v profiles. Furthermore, the importance of maximum strength may vary depending on whether the practitioner wants to maximize the performance of SJ or CMJ.

Changes in Cost of Locomotion Are Higher after Endurance Cycling Than Running When Matched for Intensity and Duration.

Cost of locomotion (C L ) has been shown to increase after endurance running and cycling bouts. The main purpose of this study was to compare, in the same participants, the effect of both modalities on C L when matched for relative intensity and duration. Seventeen recreational athletes performed two incremental tests in running and cycling to determine the first ventilatory threshold then two 3-h bouts of exercise at 105% of threshold, with gas exchange measurements taken for 10 min at the start, middle and end of the 3 h to calculate C L . Neuromuscular fatigue during isometric knee extensor contractions and force-velocity profile on a cycle ergometer were assessed before and immediately after the 3-h trials. C L significantly increased at mid (+3.7%, P = 0.006) and end (+7.4%, P < 0.001) of exercise for cycling compared with start, whereas it did not change with time for running. Cardio-respiratory and metabolic variables changed similarly for cycling and running, therefore not explaining the time-course differences in C L between modalities. Changes in C L during cycling correlated significantly with loss of maximal force extrapolated from the force-velocity profile ( r = 0.637, P = 0.006) and changes in cadence ( r = 0.784, P < 0.001). The type of locomotion influences the effects of exercise on energy cost because 3 h of exercise at the same relative intensity caused a significant increase of cycling C L , and no changes in running C L . The changes in C L in cycling are likely due, at least in part, to fatigue in the locomotor muscles.

Concurrent Validity and Reliability of Sprinting Force-Velocity Profile Assessed With GPS Devices in Elite Athletes.

The aims of this study were to (1) assess the concurrent validity of global positioning systems (GPSs) against a radar device to measure sprinting force-velocity (F-v) profiles and (2) evaluate the interunit reliability of 10-Hz GPS devices (Vector S7, Catapult Innovations). Sixteen male elite U18 rugby union players (178.3 [7.6]cm; 78.3 [13.2]kg) participated. Two 50-m sprints interspersed with at least 5minutes of recovery were completed to obtain input (maximal sprint speed and acceleration time constant τ) and output (theoretical maximal horizontal force, sprinting speed, and horizontal power) F-v profile variables. Sprint running speed was concurrently measured with a radar and 2 GPS units placed on the upper back of each player. Concurrent validity and interunit reliability analyses were performed. Moderate to nearly perfect correlations were observed between radar and GPS-derived F-v variables, with small to large typical errors. Trivial to small coefficients of variation were found regarding the GPS interunit reliability. The GPS devices tested in this study represent a valid and reliable alternative to a radar device when assessing sprint acceleration F-v profiles in team-sport players.

Weightlifting derivatives vs. plyometric exercises: Effects on unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of weightlifting derivatives (WL) and plyometric exercises (PLYO) on unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance. Initially, 45 resistance-trained men underwent a 4-week WL learning period. Then, the participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (WL (n = 15), PLYO (n = 15), and control group (CG) (n = 15)) and followed a training period of 8 weeks. The WL group performed exercises to stimulate the entire force-velocity profile, while the PLYO group performed exercises with an emphasis in vertical- and horizontal-oriented. The CG did not perform any exercise. Pre- and post-training assessments included peak power output (PPO) and jump height (JH) in the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), CMJ with 60% and 80% of the body mass (CMJ60% and CMJ80%, respectively), and mean sprinting speeds over 5, 10, 20, and 30 m distances. From pre- to post-training, PLYO significantly increased (p≤0.05) PPO and JH in the SJ, PPO during CMJ, and PPO and JH in the CMJ60%; however, no significant changes were observed in JH during CMJ, and PPO and JH in the CMJ80%. For WL and CG, no significant changes were observed in the unloaded and loaded vertical jumps variables. PLYO also resulted in significant improvements (p≤0.05) for 5, 10, and 20 m sprint speeds, but not for 30 m. For WL and CG, no significant changes were observed for all sprint speeds. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that PLYO was more effective than a technically-oriented WL program to improve unloaded and loaded vertical jumps and sprint performance.

Fatigue-Free Force-Velocity and Power-Velocity Profiles for Elite Track Sprint Cyclists: The Influence of Duration, Gear Ratio and Pedalling Rates.

Background: Maximal force-velocity (F/v) profiles for track cyclists are commonly derived from ergometer sprints using an isovelocity or isoinertial approach. Previously, an attempt was made to derive maximal F/v profiles from a single maximal 65-m sprint on the cycling track. Hypothesising that this approach may not accurately reflect the fatigue-free F/v profile, we propose an alternative procedure and compare it to the previous method. Moreover, we test for the impact of gear ratio on diagnostic results. Methods: Twelve elite track cyclists completed a high-cadence low-resistance pedalling test on a freestanding roller (motoric test) and two series of three maximal 65-m sprints on a cycling track with different gear ratios. F/v profiles were calculated based on the measured crank force and cadence either during the first 6–7 revolutions (≤6 s) on the track (model I) or were derived from the first 3–4 revolutions (≤3 s) on the track combined with 1 or 2 fatigue-free cycles at cadences above 160 rpm from the motoric test (model II). Results: Although both models exhibit high-to-excellent linearity between force and velocity, the extrapolated isometric force was higher (1507.51 ± 257.60 N and 1384.35 ± 276.84 N; p < 0.002; d = 2.555) and the slope steeper (−6.78 ± 1.17 and −5.24 ± 1.11; p < 0.003, d = −2.401) with model I. An ICC of 1.00 indicates excellent model consistency when comparing the F/v profiles (model II) derived from the different geared sprints. Conclusions: Assuring fatigue-free measurements and including high-cadence data points in the calculations provide valid maximal F/v and P/v profiles from a single acceleration-sprint independent of gear ratio.

Circulating sestrins and force velocity profiling in older adults with type 2 diabetes

ABSTRACT Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in old age affects the musculoskeletal system causing loss of muscle mass, strength, and physical function. Stress-inducible proteins named sestrins are potential novel biomarkers of muscle function due to their ability to suppress oxidative stress and prevent muscle degeneration. Our aim was to determine the association between different force-velocity (F-V) profiles with body composition, physical performance, and glucose control in older adults with T2DM. We also intended to determine the potential utility of sestrin 1 (Sesn1) and 2 (Sesn2) as biomarkers of physical functionality. Fifty-nine participants (69–79 years) were classified in 3 groups according to their F-V profile based on the leg press exercise: nondeficit (NDEF = 40.7%), force deficit (FDEF = 28.8%), and velocity deficit (VDEF = 30.5%). Both VDEF and FDEF groups showed lower muscle power than NDEF (Cohen’s d 0.87 and 0.75 for effect size, respectively). Serum Sesn2 levels, maximal dynamic strength, arms and legs fat-free mass were reduced in FDEF compared to the NDEF group (p < 0.05), whereas glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting glucose levels were similar among groups. ROC analysis revealed the distinction between the NDEF and FDEF group based on Sesn2 concentrations (<0.72 ng/mL), suggesting their potential use as functional biomarkers for early intervention through exercise. Older adults with T2DM show different F-V profiles, related to low levels of Sesn2, impaired body composition and physical performance, and may be taken into consideration to target exercise training in this specific population. Highlights The influence of different F-V deficit profiles on body composition, physical function and circulating sestrins in older adults with type 2 diabetes were studied. Both force and velocity deficits negatively affected muscle power. Force deficits are associated to low circulating sestrin 2 levels and regional fat-free mass. Basal serum sestrin 2 levels are potential biomarkers to characterise F-V profiles.

Eccentric Force Velocity Profiling: Motor Control Strategy Considerations and Relationships to Strength and Jump Performance.

Barker, L, Siedlik, J, Magrini, M, Uesato, S, Wang, H, Sjovold, A, Ewing, G, and Harry, JR. . Eccentric force velocity profiling: motor control strategy considerations and relationships to strength and jump performance. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): 574-580, 2023-Currently, no studies exist on the eccentric force-velocity profile (eFVP) during drop landings from increasing drop heights, which may reveal an athlete's braking capacity and control strategies. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the eFVP during bilateral drop landings from increasing drop heights. A secondary purpose was to explore and determine relevant relationships between the eFVP and common metrics like relative strength and jumping performance. Overall, 19 recreationally trained athletes from the university completed a 1-reptition maximum back squat, countermovement jumps, squat jumps, drop jumps, and drop landings from 0.3 to 1.52-m box heights in 0.15-m increments. Average force and velocity from the peak drop landing trial was used to generate an eFVP. The mean linear eFVP was -6.65x + 14.73, and the mean second order polynomial eFVP was -1.37x 2 - 25.84x + 0.17. The second-order polynomial fit the data better with large effect ( dunb = 1.05, p < 0.05). No significant correlations between the eFVP coefficients and the strength and jumping measurements were observed. Future research could investigate how training can influence the eFVP. Eccentric force production during landing may be a unique quality that requires specific development strategies, such has fast or slow eccentric training.

Force–velocity profiles of track cyclists differ between seated and non-seated positions

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to compare the Force–Velocity profiles of track sprint cyclists obtained in seated and non-seated positions. Athletes were tested on a stationary cycle ergometer for the seated position and on a racing bike at the velodrome for the non-seated position. We modelled torque and power vs. cadence relationships and extracted maximal force (F0), optimal cadence (Copt), maximal power (Pmax), maximal cadence (C0) and Copt/C0 ratio. Torque/power production was larger in the non-seated position for cadences ranging from 20 to 120 rpm, while more torque and power were produced in the seated position at cadences above 160 rpm. The effective pedal force increased by 0.2 times bodyweight at 50 rpm, and the power production increased by 2.5 W. kg−1 at 90 rpm in the non-seated position. Copt (-14 ± 8 rpm, P < 0.05) and C0 (−55 ± 32 rpm, P < 0.05) were lowered, while Pmax (+1.7 ± 1.1 W. kg−1, P < 0.05) and Copt/C0 ratios (+0.07 ± 0.04, P < 0.05) were increased in the non-seated position when compared with the seated position. Our results show that adopting a non-seated position allows sprint cyclists to maximise torque/power production at lower cadences, while torque/power production was maximised at higher cadences when athletes adopted a seated position.

The Validity of the 2-Point Method for Assessing the Force-Velocity Relationship of the Knee Flexors and Knee Extensors: The Relevance of Distant Force-Velocity Testing.

Over the past decade, force-velocity (F-v) profiling has emerged as a promising tool for assessing neuromuscular capacity to design individually tailored interventions in diverse populations. To date, a limited number of studies have addressed the optimization of the linear method for measuring F-v profiles of single-joint isokinetic movements. We aimed to simplify the measurement of knee extension (KE) and knee flexion (KF) isokinetic tasks by evaluating the most appropriate combination of two velocities (i.e., the 2-point method). Twenty-two healthy participants (11 males and 11 females) were included in the study. Isokinetic peak torque was measured at nine angular velocities (30-60-90-120-150-180-210-240-300°/s) and under isometric conditions (at 150° and 120° of KF for KE, and KF, respectively). Maximal theoretical force (F0), maximal theoretical velocity (v0), slope of the relationship (Sfv) and maximal theoretical power (Pmax) were derived from the linear F-v profiles of KE and KF and compared between the 9-point method and all possible combinations (36 in total) of the 2-point methods. The F-v profiles obtained from nine points were linear for KE (R2 = 0.95; 95% CI = 0.94–0.96) and KF (R2 = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.90–0.95), with F0 underestimating isometric force. Further analyses revealed great to excellent validity (range: ICCs = 0.89–0.99; CV = 2.54%–4.34%) and trivial systematic error (range: ES = −0.11–0.24) of the KE 2-point method when force from distant velocities (30°/s, 60°/s or 90°/s combined with 210°/s, 240°/s or 300°/s) was used. Similarly, great to excellent validity and trivial systematic error of the KF 2-point method for F0 and Pmax (range: ICC = 0.90–0.96; CV = 2.94%–6.38%; ES = −0.07–0.14) were observed when using the previously described combinations of velocities. These results suggest that practitioners should consider using more distant velocities when performing simplified isokinetic 2-point single-joint F-v profiling. Furthermore, the F-v profile has the potential to differentiate between the mechanical properties of knee extensors and flexors and could therefore serve as a potential descriptor of performance.

Differences in Force-Velocity Profiles During Countermovement Jump and Flywheel Squats and Associations With a Different Change of Direction Tests in Elite Karatekas.

The force-velocity (F-v) relationship has been proposed as a biomechanical characteristic to comprehensively evaluate neuromuscular capabilities within different tasks such as vertical jumping, sprinting and bench pressing. F-v relationship during flywheel (FW) squats was already validated, however, it was never compared to F-v profile of vertical jumps or associated with change of direction (CoD) performance. The aims of our study were (1) to compare F-v profiles measured during counter movement jumps (CMJs) and FW squats, (2) to determine correlations of F-v mechanical capacities with different CoD tests, (3) to investigate the portion of explained variance in CoD tests with the F-v outcome measures. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 39 elite karatekas. They performed CMJs and FW squats using progressive loads to calculate F-v profile outcome variables and different CoD tests (CoD at 90°, CoD at 180°, t-test, short karate specific test (KST) and long KST). Our results showed significantly higher values in all F-v outcome variables (F0—theoretical maximal force, V0—maximal unloaded velocity, Pmax—maximal power output, F-vslope—the slope of F-v relationship) calculated from CMJs compared to FW squats (all p < 0.01). Significant positive moderate correlations between the tasks were found for F0 and Pmax (r = 0.323–0.378, p = 0.018–0.045). In comparison to F-v outcome variables obtained in FW squats, higher correlations were found between F-v outcome variables calculated from CMJs and CoD tests. The only significant correlation in F-v outcome variables calculated from FW squats was found between Pmax and short KST time. For all CoD tests, only one F-v predictor was included; more specifically—CMJ-F0 for CoD 90°, CoD 180° and t-test, and FW-Pmax for short KST performance. To conclude, our results showed that F-v relationship between CMJs and FW squats differed significantly and cannot be used interchangeably for F-v profiling. Moreover, we confirmed that high force and power production is important for the successful performance of general and karate specific CoD tasks.