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The Magical Horizontal Force Muscle? A Preliminary Study Examining the "Force-Vector" Theory
David A Fitzpatrick1, Giuseppe Cimadoro2, Daniel J Cleather3
1Research conducted at School of Sport, Health and Applied Science, St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK. davidfitz22@hotmail.com.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 26, 2019
Summary
The force-vector theory suggests horizontal exercises improve horizontal jump performance. This study found hip thrust training improved both horizontal and vertical jumps equally, contradicting the theory and highlighting dynamic correspondence.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- The force-vector theory posits that exercise specificity aligns with the direction of force production relative to a global frame.
- This theory suggests horizontal exercises are optimal for horizontal sports skills.
- The principle of dynamic correspondence emphasizes force direction relative to the athlete, challenging the force-vector theory's foundation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically test the predictions of the force-vector theory regarding exercise specificity.
- To investigate the effects of hip thrust training on both horizontal and vertical jump performance.
Main Methods:
- Eleven collegiate female athletes underwent a 14-week hip thrust training program.
- Performance was assessed pre- and post-training using vertical squat jump, vertical countermovement jump, horizontal squat jump, horizontal countermovement jump, and hip thrust 3 repetition maximum (3RM).
Main Results:
- Hip thrust 3RM performance significantly improved by 33.0%.
- Both vertical and horizontal jump performances showed significant improvements (5.4–7.7%).
- Crucially, no significant difference was observed in the magnitude of improvement between horizontal and vertical jump performance.
Conclusions:
- The study's findings contradict the force-vector theory's predictions.
- The principle of dynamic correspondence offers a more mechanistically sound framework for assessing exercise specificity.
- Coaches should prioritize dynamic correspondence when selecting exercises to enhance sports-specific skills.