Relative Contributions of Force and Velocity to Peak Power Across A Load Spectrum

Abstract

Current resistance training controversies include whether to emphasize maximum force and strength, or to focus on velocity and movement speed. The purpose of this project was to determine the relative contributions of resistance exercise force and velocity to peak power. Weight-trained men (XSD; n=24, age=27.87.0yrs) were tested for one repetition maximum (1RM), peak power, force at peak power and velocity at peak power at 40% 1RM, 70% 1RM and 100% 1RM. All lifts were performed on a 45 leg press equipped with a linear position transducer to determine kinetic and kinematic variables. Mean 1RM leg press strength was 19747 kg. Relative contributions of force and velocity to power at each intensity were determined using multiple linear regressions. The relative contribution of force at 40% 1RM=47.0%, at 70% 1RM=58.2% and at 100% 1RM=45.1%, while relative contribution of velocity at 40% 1RM=53.0%, at 70% 1RM=41.8% and at 100% 1RM=54.9%. These data indicate the relative importance of force and velocity to peak power during the leg press exercise. Although the relative contributions change depending on load, these data suggest that both qualities should be emphasized during training for high power.