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Velocity specificity of resistance training
1Department of Physical Education, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Resistance training strength gains are specific to the velocity trained, with intent to move fast being key. Adaptations occur in both neural and muscular systems, influencing muscle activation and contraction speed.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Resistance training elicits strength gains specific to the velocity of contraction.
- The intent to contract at high velocity may be crucial for these adaptations.
- Underlying mechanisms involve both neural and muscular components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms behind velocity-specific resistance training adaptations.
- To differentiate between neural and muscular contributions to these effects.
- To investigate the role of motor unit activation and firing patterns.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on velocity-specific training.
- Analysis of studies examining neural adaptations (e.g., electromyography).
- Examination of muscular adaptations (e.g., hypertrophy, contractile properties).
Main Results:
- Greatest strength gains occur at or near the training velocity.
- High-velocity intent appears critical for specificity.
- Evidence suggests velocity-specific electromyographic (EMG) adaptations and potential neural changes in motor unit activation and firing frequency.
- Muscular adaptations like hypertrophy may not always support high-velocity gains.
Conclusions:
- Velocity-specific training adaptations involve complex neural and muscular interactions.
- Neural adaptations, including selective motor unit activation and altered firing frequencies, likely play a significant role.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the contribution of motor unit synchronisation and antagonist co-contraction.