Impact of arm technique and elastic force on vertical jump performance in physical education students: a convergent validation study

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Vertical jump performance is crucial for athletes in many sports. However, the optimal techniques for maximizing jump height and efficiency for both students and professional soccer players require more effective solutions. This study aimed to investigate the influence of various vertical jump techniques, focusing on arm swing and elastic force utilization, and to evaluate the extent of the impact that each modification has on biomechanical characteristics and performance outcomes. Materials and methods. Ten first-grade Sport Science students and ten professional soccer players from F.C. Malisevo participated in the study. The participants performed a series of jumps, including the Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Squat Jump (SJ), and Abalakov jump (ABL), while being recorded on an iPhone 13 Pro at 240 frames per second. Data analysis was conducted using the My Jump 3 app and SPSS 26 software. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were employed for comparative analysis. The Independent Samples T-test was used to compare differences in jump performance between the groups. Results. Significant differences in jump performance and force production were observed between SP and PES, with professional athletes demonstrating superior neuromuscular capabilities and better utilization of elastic energy. However, within each group, no significant differences were found between the different jump techniques, suggesting that arm swing and elastic force contribute similarly to overall jump height. Arm swing contributed 11.0% to jump performance in PES and 12.0% in SP, while the influence of elastic force stored in tendons during the eccentric phase was 7.0% in PES and 6.0% in SP. Conclusions. Specialized training significantly enhances jump performance, as evidenced by differences in CMJ, SJ, and ABL between SP and PES. Arm swing and elastic force utilization play crucial roles in vertical jumping, with professional athletes potentially leveraging arm mechanics more effectively. The study validates the reliability of the My Jump 3 app for measuring jump performance across diverse athletic backgrounds.