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Postactivation Performance Enhancement With Maximal Isometric Contraction on Power-Clean Performance Across Multiple
Danny Lum1,2, Keng Yang Ong1, Michael H Haischer3,4
1Sport Science and Sport Medicine, Singapore Sport Institute, Singapore.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance
|December 29, 2023
Summary
Maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) potentiated power-clean performance in contrast training. This method enhanced barbell velocity without increasing perceived exertion, suggesting its practical application for coaches.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Strength and Conditioning
Background:
- Postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) describes the acute potentiation of muscle force or power production following a conditioning activity.
- Contrast training, which pairs high-load or high-intensity exercises with lower-load or lower-intensity exercises, is a popular method for improving athletic performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the postactivation performance-enhancement effect of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) at the starting position on power-clean performance.
- To evaluate the efficacy of an isometric contrast training protocol (ISO) on power-clean performance.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen male and 2 female resistance-trained individuals participated in the study.
- Participants performed a contrast PAPE protocol (ISO) consisting of 3 sets of 3 MVICs alternated with 3 power cleans, with a 1-minute rest period between exercises.
- A control protocol involved performing 3 sets of 3 power cleans without the MVIC conditioning activity. Barbell velocity during the power clean was measured.
Main Results:
- A significant time effect was observed for both mean velocity (MV) and peak velocity (PV) during the power clean.
- While no significant differences were found between the ISO and control groups for MV or PV, the ISO protocol showed small to moderate effect sizes (MV: d = 0.38–0.50, PV: d = 0.35–0.50) favoring the ISO condition.
- No significant difference in the rating of perceived exertion was observed between the two conditions.
Conclusions:
- Power-clean performance was potentiated following 1 minute of rest after 3 repetitions of MVIC across 3 sets.
- The isometric contrast training protocol did not lead to a greater perception of exertion.
- Coaches can consider incorporating MVICs as a PAPE stimulus within contrast training programs for the power-clean exercise.
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