Readiness to train: Return to baseline strength and velocity following strength or power training

Abstract

This study investigated the return to baseline of movement velocity and maximal strength following a strength-orientated and power-orientated session in the free-weight back squat performed with maximal concentric velocity. Fourteen strength-trained males completed a strength-orientated session (5-sets of 5-repetitions @80% of a one-repetition maximum [1RM]) and a power-orientated session (3-sets of 6-repetitions @50%1RM) in a randomised order over two weeks (e.g. strength week-1, power week-2). The back-squat was then performed with loads of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 90% and 100%1RM at 24, 48, 72 and 96hours following the strength and power exercise sessions to assess return to baseline of squat velocity and maximal strength. Dependent variables included 1RM, back squat mean velocity (MV) and peak velocity (PV), and countermovement jump peak velocity (CMJ-PV). Meaningful changes ([ES] ≥-0.60) were reported for MV and PV at loads ≥ 60%1RM at 24 and 48-hours after the strength-orientated session. Trivial to small (ES ≤-0.59) differences were reported for squat velocities following the power-orientated session. Only trivial to small ES differences were observed for CMJ-PV, and 1RM at all time points following both sessions. Squat velocity (MV and PV) across the load velocity profile (LVP) had recovered at 72 hours following the strength-orientated session. However, the return to baseline of squat velocity (MV and PV) did not coincide with the return to baseline of 1RM or CMJ-PV. Therefore, measuring and monitoring meaningful changes in velocity may be a more valid and practical alternative in determining full recovery and readiness to train.

Back squat velocity to assess neuromuscular status of rugby league players following a match

“…They reported back squat mean and peak velocities to be moderately reduced at loads of 60%, 80%, and 90% 1RM at +24 h and +48 h following a strength-based training session, but not at loads of 20%, and 40% 1RM. Our results were similar with large and small reductions in back squat MV at +24 h and +48 h respectively and support the results of Vernon et al 15 regarding back squat velocity being impaired for 48 h following exercise. Our findings in combination with previous findings suggest that a range of baseline velocities and submaximal loads >40% 1RM may be suitable to detect changes in NMS.…”

“…14,16 However, within our study V 1Load corresponded to a lighter relative load (∼50% 1RMe). A recent study by Vernon et al 15 similarly monitored changes in back squat velocity. They reported back squat mean and peak velocities to be moderately reduced at loads of 60%, 80%, and 90% 1RM at +24 h and +48 h following a strength-based training session, but not at loads of 20%, and 40% 1RM.…”

“…Our findings in combination with previous findings suggest that a range of baseline velocities and submaximal loads >40% 1RM may be suitable to detect changes in NMS. 14,15 Further investigation is required to determine whether the force or velocity requirements of this testing contribute to the detection of changes in NMS and, thus if a different relative load or baseline velocity would increase sensitivity of detecting changes in NMS. Furthermore, the findings of this study are limited to sub-elite rugby league players, and further research is required to determine the validity and reliability of using back squat MV to monitor changes in NMS at different levels of competition in rugby league and in other sports.…”

“…13 Further, the LVR has been utilised to assess changes in NMS following resistance exercise, in conjunction with CMJ performance. [14][15][16] Specifically, strong correlations between changes in CMJ height and back squat velocity (r = 0.93) have been reported following resistance exercise training. 16 Additionally, Vernon et al 15 recently found back squat velocity using a range of loads (60-90% of one repetition maximum (1RM) load) was an effective means to assess readiness to train in the days following resistance training.…”

“…[14][15][16] Specifically, strong correlations between changes in CMJ height and back squat velocity (r = 0.93) have been reported following resistance exercise training. 16 Additionally, Vernon et al 15 recently found back squat velocity using a range of loads (60-90% of one repetition maximum (1RM) load) was an effective means to assess readiness to train in the days following resistance training. In this regard, researchers have typically assessed changes in NMS during the back squat using a load corresponding to a mean velocity of 1 m s −1 during the propulsive phase, equating to approximately 60% of 1RM load.…”