Search

Horizontal foot speed is fundamental for running synchronization and stability, and may also be important for sprinting performance. In this investigation, we quantified the following during steady-speed running: (a) peak forward foot speed during the swing phase, (b) backward foot speed at touchdown, and (c) ground speed difference (GSD), i.e., the difference between forward running speed and backward foot speed at touchdown. We hypothesized that forward and backward foot speed would be significantly and positively correlated with top speed, and that GSD would be significantly and negatively correlated with top speed. Participants (20 male, 20 female) completed 40-m submaximal and maximaleffort running trials, with kinematic data collected from 31--39 m. Across top speed trials, forward foot speed (r = 0.90, p < 0.001) and backward foot speed (r = 0.85, p < 0.001) were significantly and positively correlated with running speed. However, counter to expectations, GSD values slightly increased with top speed (r = 0.36, p = 0.027). These findings indicate that forward and backward foot speeds are important variables for sprinting performance, but faster runners may not necessarily exhibit lower GSD values at top speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clark, KP, Stearne, D J, Waits, CT, and Miller, AD. The longitudinal effects of resisted sprint training using weighted sleds vs. weighted vests. J Strength Cond Res 24(12): 3287-3295, 2010-The purpose of this study was to determine the longitudinal effects of weighted sled (WS) and weighted vest (WV) sprint training on maximum velocity sprint performance and kinematics. Twenty male collegiate lacrosse players were randomly assigned to a WS group (n = 7) towing 10% body mass, a WV group (n = 6) loaded with 18.5% body mass, or an unresisted (UR) active control group (n = 7). All subjects completed 13 training sessions over 7 weeks. Pre- and posttest measures of sprint time and average velocity across the distance interval of 18.3 to 54.9 m were used to assess sprint performance, whereas high-speed video (300 Hz) and motion-analysis software were used to analyze stride length, stride rate, ground contact time, and flight time. A 3 x 2 repeated measures analysis of variance was performed for each dependent variable and revealed no significant between-group differences for any of the sprint performance or kinematic stride cycle measures. Effect size statistics suggested small improvements in 18.3- to 54.9-m sprint time and average velocity for the UR group but only trivial improvements for the WS and WV groups. With regard to sprint performance, the results indicate that WS and WV training had no beneficial effect compared with UR training. In fact, for the loads used by WS and WV in this study, UR training may actually be superior for improving sprint performance in the 18.3- to 54.9-m interval. KEY WORDS maximum velocity sprinting, sprinting kinematics

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a flexible nonlinear (FNL) periodized weight training program compared to a nonlinear (NL) periodized weight training program on strength and power. Sixteen beginner weight training students were randomly assigned to an FNL group (n = 8) or an NL group (n = 8). The exercise program included a combination of machines and free weights completed in 30 minutes, twice per week, for 12 consecutive weeks. Both groups were assigned the same total training volume of 3,680 repetitions and the same total training repetition maximum assignments of 10, 15, and 20. The FNL group, however, was allowed to choose which day they completed the 10, 15, or 20 repetition workout. This was the only difference between the groups. Pre- and post-test measures included chest press, leg press, and standing long jump. The FNL group significantly improved by an average increase of 62 kg (p < 0.05), whereas the NL group only increased by an average of 16 kg in the leg press. The FNL group did not significantly differ in chest press or standing long jump performance when compared to the NL group. The conclusion from this study is that an FNL periodization program may be a highly effective method of training for improving leg strength. Coaches can immediately implement an FNL program by evaluating the readiness of an athlete immediately before his or her training session, then adjusting the assigned exercise intensity accordingly. KEY WORDS resistance, strength, power, leg press

The purpose of this study was to determine how a traditional weight training class compared to nontraditional classes that were heavily laden with technology. Could students learn resistance exercises by watching video demonstrations over the Internet? Three university weight training classes, each lasting 16 weeks, were compared. Each class had the same curriculum and workout requirements but different attendance requirements. The online group made extensive use of the Internet and was allowed to complete the workouts on their own at any gym that was convenient for them. Seventy-nine college-aged students were randomized into 3 groups: traditional (n = 27), hybrid (n = 25), and online (n = 27). They completed pretest and posttest measures on upper-body strength (i.e., bench press), lowerbody strength (i.e., back squat), and knowledge (i.e., written exam). The results indicated that all 3 groups showed significant improvement in knowledge (p < 0.05). The online group did not require the students to attend class and may have resulted in significantly lower scores on the bench press (p < 0.05) and squats (p < 0.05). This study indicates that an online weight training course may improve knowledge but not strength. Possible reasons for a lack of improvement in the online group included lack of motivation, low accountability, and the possibility that the self-reported workouts were not accurate. These results suggest that there is a limit to how much technology can be used in a weight training class. If this limit is exceeded, some type of monitoring system appears necessary to ensure that students are actually completing their workouts.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the degree to which subtalar joint pronation resulting from a supple planus foot affects knee alignment, hip muscle activation and ground reaction force attenuation in female athletes during a broad jump-to-cut maneuver., Methods: Twelve National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II female soccer players (age=19.4±1.4 years, height=1.64±0.05 m, mass=64.10±4.8 kg) were identified as having either supple planus (SP) or rigid feet (RF). Participants completed three broad jump-to-cut trials onto a force plate while EMG and motion data were collected. Muscle activation levels (percentage of maximal voluntary contraction [%MVC]) in the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, biceps femoris, and rectus femoris were calculated, and peak vertical and medial shear force, rate of loading, and valgus angle were collected for each trial., Results: Mann-Whitney U tests revealed no statistical significance between foot-type groups, however, effect size statistics revealed practical significance for between-group %MVC biceps femoris (d=1.107), %MVC gluteus maximus (d=1.069), and vertical ground reaction force (d=1.061)., Conclusions: Athletes with a SP foot type may experience decreased hip muscle activation associated with increased vertical ground reaction force during a broad jump-to-cut maneuver. This might result in reduced dynamic stability and neuromuscular control during deceleration, potentially increasing the risk of non-contact ACL injury in female soccer players.