Comparison of the Potentiating Effect of Variable Load Jump Squats on Acute Drop Jump Performance in Rugby Sevens Athletes

• Nick Poulos ^[1] ; G. Gregory Haff ^[1] ; Maria L. Nibali ; Phillip Graham-Smith ; Robert U. Newton
  1. [1] Edith Cowan University

     Edith Cowan University

     Australia

     
• Localización: Journal of strength and conditioning research: the research journal of the NSCA, ISSN 1064-8011, Vol. 37, Nº. 1, 2023, págs. 149-160
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The effect of variable load jump squats (JSs) on acute drop jump (DJ) performance across multiple sets was examined. Seventeen elite rugby sevens athletes performed 3 DJs after 3 repetitions of a JS conditioning activity (CA) performed at 30 or 50% 1RM back squat loads. Acute postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) in DJ kinetic and kinematic variables was assessed using a commercially available force platform (1,000 Hz). Postactivation performance enhancement was predominant after the 30% 1RM load with the greatest frequency of potentiation exhibited in set 3. The 50% 1RM CA resulted in substantial decrements in DJ performance with the exception of active stiffness, reactive strength index (flight:contact time), and contact time. Moderate differences were observed between the 50 and 30% 1RM loads for peak power (W), impulse (N[middle dot]s), and force at zero velocity (N); active stiffness was the only variable where PAPE was greater in the 50% 1RM CA (ES: small). Active stiffness was the only variable to display favorable associations with relative strength in both the JS 30% 1RM (ES: 0.38 +/- 0.20; moderate) and 50% 1RM (ES: 0.24 +/- 0.23; small) CA loads. The JS 30% 1RM CA results in greater magnitude and frequency of PAPE of DJ kinetic and kinematic variables and is recommended if seeking to target PAPE in a range of DJ performance variables. Heavier JS loads may be appropriate if enhancement of muscle stiffness and stretch-shortening cycle efficiency is required. Consideration of targeted kinetic and kinematic variables when selecting CA intensity in complex training design is recommended.