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Muscle Imbalances: Testing and Training Functional Eccentric Hamstring Strength in Athletic Populations
Published on: May 1, 2018
Relationships between stretch-shortening cycle performance and maximum muscle strength
Kazuyoshi Miyaguchi1, Shinichi Demura
1Liberal Arts Education Center, Ishikawa Prefectural University, Ishikawa, Japan. kazu1060@lapis.plala.or.jp
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|February 26, 2008
Summary
Muscle power using the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) correlates strongly with 1 repetition maximum (1RM) bench press strength. This relationship is stronger than with isokinetic strength measurements, indicating 1RM tests better reflect SSC power in trained individuals.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- The stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) is crucial for explosive movements.
- Understanding the relationship between SSC power and maximal strength is vital for athletic performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate correlations between muscle power output during SSC and maximal strength measures.
- To compare the relationship of SSC power with 1 repetition maximum (1RM) versus isokinetic strength.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen trained males performed ballistic elbow flexion under static relaxed and SSC conditions.
- Muscle power was calculated using velocity and load.
- Maximal strength was assessed via 1RM bench press and isokinetic dynamometry.
Main Results:
- SSC power demonstrated a significant high correlation (r=0.83) with 1RM bench press.
- Moderate correlations were found between SSC power and isokinetic strength (r=0.50-0.67).
- 1RM bench press significantly contributed to early contraction velocity during SSC.
Conclusions:
- Muscle power generated via the SSC is more closely related to maximal strength assessed by 1RM tests.
- Isokinetic strength measurements appear less indicative of SSC power compared to 1RM tests in trained individuals.
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