A SIMPLE METHOD FOR ASSESSMENT OF MUSCLE MECHANICAL CAPACITIES FROM FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT TASKS

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the level of agreement between the routinely used multiple-load method and a simple two-load method based on direct assessment of the F-V relationship from only 2 external loads applied. Twelve participants were tested on the maximum performance vertical jumps, cycling, bench press throws, and bench pull performed against a variety of different loads. All four tested tasks revealed both exceptionally strong relationships between the parameters of the 2 methods (median R = 0.98) and a lack of meaningful differences between their magnitudes (fixed bias below 3.4%). Therefore, addition of another load to the standard tests of various functional tasks typically conducted under a single set of mechanical conditions could allow for the assessment of the muscle mechanical properties, such as the muscle F, V, and P producing capacities

Free weight training vs. elastic band training: What is a more effective strategy for increasing maximal velocity ability during handball throws?

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of two resistance training (RT) programmes (free weight [FW] and elastic band [EB]) on velocity variables (handball throwing velocity [HTV] and maximal theoretical velocity [V0]) using load-velocity (L-V) relationship modelling. Both programmes lasted 6 weeks and consisted of performing bench press and overarm dumbbell pull-over using free weights (FW group) or elastic bands (EB group). Nineteen male sports science students were randomly assigned to EB (n=10) or FW group (n=9). Both RT programmes increased HTV and V0, although the increment was greater in the FW (>2 m·s-1) compared to the EB group (<1 m·s-1). RT programmes had selective effects on the strength variables being FW more effective in increasing 1-repetition maximum, while EB in increasing maximal isometric force. Very large correlations were observed between two-point (L-V relationship modelled through two pairs of L and V data) and multiple-point methods (L-V relationship modelled through six pairs of L and V data) (V0: r=0.96; HTV: r=0.93). All coefficients of variation showed high validity both for V0 and HTV (≤6.2%). Altogether, FW training should be used for increasing the velocity of the throwing performance, while the two-point method for following training-induced changes

Effects of training against elastic resistance on jab punch performance in elite junior athletes

Ability to perform rapid open-kinetic chain movements (e.g. kicking, throwing, hitting, or punching) is an important prerequisite for success in various sports. The aims of the present study were (1) to investigate the effect of elastic resistance training (ERT) on the performance of jab punch, (2) to explore the associated changes in movement kinematic and kinetic patterns, and (3) to assess possible differences among competitors of different specializations. The national level junior competitors in kick boxing, savate, and boxing practiced jab punch against elastic resistance for 15 minutes per day, 3 times a week for 6 weeks, while the control group participated only in their regular training (N=10+10+10+10; age 17.2±1.0 years; M±SD). The results revealed a marked increase in the maximum jab punch velocity in all experimental groups (6-11%; all p<.01), but not in the control group (p>.05). This finding was associated with an increase in both the maximum velocity and displacement of the ipsilateral elbow, shoulder, and, particularly, hip joint, while no change in the movement time was observed. The ERT-associated increase was also revealed in the agonist (7-11%, all p<.01), but not antagonist muscle strength. Therefore, we conclude that addition of a relatively small amount of ERT could be recommended for the purpose of improving punching performance and, possibly, other rapid limb movement even in top-level junior athletes. The observed performance improvement could be partly based on increased motion amplitudes particularly regarding the pelvis movement, as well as on increased strength of agonist muscles

Effects of two neuromuscular training programs on running biomechanics with load carriage: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Background In recent years, athletes have ventured into ultra-endurance and adventure racing events, which tests their ability to race, navigate, and survive. These events often require race participants to carry some form of load, to bear equipment for navigation and survival purposes. Previous studies have reported specific alterations in biomechanics when running with load which potentially influence running performance and injury risk. We hypothesize that a biomechanically informed neuromuscular training program would optimize running mechanics during load carriage to a greater extent than a generic strength training program. Methods This will be a two group, parallel randomized controlled trial design, with single assessor blinding. Thirty healthy runners will be recruited to participate in a six weeks neuromuscular training program. Participants will be randomized into either a generic training group, or a biomechanically informed training group. Primary outcomes include self-determined running velocity with a 20 % body weight load, jump power, hopping leg stiffness, knee extensor and triceps-surae strength. Secondary outcomes include running kinetics and kinematics. Assessments will occur at baseline and post-training. Discussion To our knowledge, no training programs are available that specifically targets a runner’s ability to carry load while running. This will provide sport scientists and coaches with a foundation to base their exercise prescription on

2 rad-2.indd

Abstract The purpose of this survey was to assess the reliability of the short pulse contraction (KPK) test for the evaluation of neuromuscular characteristics, as well as to defi ne the possibility of generalization of the variables obtained from short pulse contractions [maximal force (MS), rate of force development (BRS) and rate of force reduction (BSS)] to different muscle groups. The survey covered the sample of 48 students of the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, 12 in the fi rst and 36 in the second experiment. KPK were carried out for the intensities of 30%, 50% and 70% of the Fmax. The survey was carried out through the two experiments. In the fi rst experiment the task was to determine the degree of connection between the MS, BRS and BSS results obtained from KPK with maximal force (Fmax) and maximal rate of force development (BRSmax) obtained from standard force tests. Also, the task was to determine the degree of reliability of the results from the fi rst measurement and those of the measurement after two days and after six weeks. The obtained results showed high reliability of the majority of variables within the measurement, as well as with the measurements after two days and after six weeks from the fi rst measurement. Remarkably high coeffi cients of intra-correlation were obtained within one testing (ICC &gt; 0.90) as well as within the measurements carried out on different days (0.80 -0.92). The characteristics of BRS and BSS functions in relation to the MS, calculated according to the data obtained from the KPK, show the linear character of the function which goes through the points that describe the relation between the generated force and the BRS and BSS. The obtained results show high reliability and a reasonable degree of generalization in relation to different muscle groups. Considering that the generalization of the new test was not adequately shown, the results suggest further evaluation and KPK test development