Maximum power training load determination and its effects on load-power relationship, maximum strength, and vertical...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Optimizing resistance training requires understanding the relationship between load, velocity, and power output.
• Individualized training loads, particularly those maximizing mechanical power, are explored for their effectiveness.
• The influence of including or excluding body mass in power calculations on training adaptations is not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of heavy load (HL-90%) training versus training aimed at maximizing mechanical power (with and without body mass considerations) on strength and jump performance.
• To analyze the changes in the load-velocity and load-power relationships following these distinct resistance training protocols.
• To determine how different training load selections influence long-term neuromuscular adaptations.

Main Methods:

• Forty-three moderately trained men were divided into four groups: high load (HL-90%), maximum power excluding body mass (Pmax - bw), maximum power including body mass (Pmax + bw), and a control group.
• Participants underwent a 6-week training program involving jump squats and repeated jumps with specific loads and repetitions tailored to each group.
• Measurements included maximum strength (semisquat), jump height (squat and countermovement jump), and power output across various loads.

Main Results:

• All training groups showed significant improvements in maximum strength and jump performance compared to the control group.
• The HL-90% group exhibited superior gains in maximum strength compared to the power-focused groups.
• Both HL-90% and Pmax - bw groups enhanced power output across a wider range of loads than the Pmax + bw group.

Conclusions:

• Training load selection critically influences the specific adaptations in the load-power relationship.
• Heavy load training (90% of 1RM) appears to induce greater overall neuromuscular adaptations in moderately trained individuals.
• The method of calculating maximum power (with or without body mass) affects long-term training outcomes, suggesting individualized load selection based on training goals.