Effect of maturity status on force-velocity relationships in a ballistic lower limb test in high-level soccer players

This study aimed to investigate the effect of maturity status on force-velocity relationships in a ballistic lower limb (BLL) test in high-level soccer adolescents and young adults. The population was 61 adolescents (13.0-17.9 years) and 23 young adults (18.0-26.2 years). Subjects completed the BLL test on a ballistic ergometer equipped with two force plates and a linear encoder. Following Samozino's method, maximal power output (P_max), force (F₀) and velocity (v₀) were determined. An allometric model was applied to P_max and F₀ with body mass (BM) and fat-free mass (FFM). Significant effects of maturity status were found for absolute P_max, F₀, relative P_max to BM and FFM, relative F₀ to FFM and F₀ allometrically scaled to BM and FFM (p = 0.02 to p < 0.001; $$ = 0.10 to $$ = 0.49). There was no significant effect for P_max allometrically scaled to BM and FFM, F₀ relative to BM and v₀. Body dimensions explain group differences in P_max whereas for F₀, qualitative factors explain the differences between the groups. As maturity status and body dimensions influence P_max, these factors should be considered when assessing explosive short efforts. This could help to better identify potential athletic talent and adapt training content.