Test-retest reliability and sensitivity of the Concept2 Dyno dynamometer: practical applications

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Objective strength assessment is crucial for athlete monitoring.
• Mobile and user-friendly equipment minimizes disruption to training and competition.
• Reliability is paramount for accurate performance tracking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability of the Concept2 Dyno dynamometer for strength assessment.
• To determine if the device is suitable for field-based strength monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Forty-six competitive athletes performed maximal seated chest press, seated row, and seated leg press exercises.
• Familiarization and three experimental sessions were conducted with one-week intervals.
• Reliability was assessed using systematic bias, intraclass correlation coefficient, coefficient of variation, and 95% limits of agreement.

Main Results:

• No systematic bias was detected across the tested exercises.
• High intraclass correlation coefficients (0.89-0.98) and low coefficients of variation (4.3-6.2%) were observed.
• 95% limits of agreement suggest minimal potential for over/underestimation in subsequent testing.

Conclusions:

• The Concept2 Dyno dynamometer is a reliable tool for field-based strength performance monitoring.
• Coaches and researchers can utilize this device for efficient strength assessment.
• Consideration of specific analytical goals is recommended when implementing the Concept2 Dyno.