Acute effects of an ascending intensity squat protocol on vertical jump performance

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of an ascending intensity squat protocol consisting of single-repetition exercises on subsequent vertical jump performance. Fourteen college weightlifters attended 2 testing sessions: squat (SQ) and control (CON) conditions. In the SQ condition, squat exercises with incremental loads (20% 1 repetition maximum [RM], 40% 1RM, 60% 1RM, 80% 1RM, and maximal isometric [MI] half-squat exercise) were performed with a time interval of 3 minutes after submaximal cycling and static stretching. Maximum vertical jump height was measured at the beginning of the session and after cycling, static stretching, and each squat exercise in the SQ condition. In the CON condition, vertical jump height was measured at the same times with the subject resting on a chair after cycling and stretching. Vertical jump height gradually increased after 60% 1RM, 80% 1RM, and MI half-squat exercises compared with baseline values (i.e., first trial of vertical jump), whereas no change was observed in the CON condition. These results suggest that an ascending intensity squat protocol consisting of single-repetition exercises of sufficient intensity can be useful for athletes who require high muscular power.