Authors: Prue Cormie, Michael R. McGuigan and Robert U. Newton.

SportsMed 2011,41 (2): 126-146.

Commentary by Mathieu Charbonneau

This review discusses the parameters of power output and training with links to specific sport movement characteristics. The force-velocity relationship is the main topic and parameters we can manipulate to train power output are presented with evidence and practical examples. Training modalities are discussed in terms of motion pattern, velocity, and loading, regarding sport specificity. This paper helps in logically selecting training modalities.

Topics covered :

• Neuromuscular elements in force and power production

• Movement pattern specificity of training modalities

• Load specificity: How heavy; Why; What does it enhance?

• Velocity specificity: Move an object rapidly or twitch your muscle fast (rate of force development)?

• Windows of adaptation: It is difficult for the high level athlete to advance to the next level. There is a necessity to target the right parameters at the appropriate time (low-/high-velocity strength, rate of force development, stretch-shortening cycle, intra-/inter-muscular coordination, skills)

• Integration of modalities within periodization

Since strength is a major constituent of power production, strength training is discussed as a neuromuscular base before emphasizing load- and speed-specificity. The proposed order is: heavy load/slow velocity, low load/ high velocity, plyometrics, sport specific coordination, and skills. I like the idea on the versatility of load-modality combinations to raise an athlete’s competence in a wide spectrum of the strength-velocity curve. It will help build a strong, healthy athlete through training and competition. Power capability should be fine tuned, depending on sport type and load characteristics the athlete must face: high load/high speed for opponent sports (with body contact, combat sports), low load/high speed for athletics type sports (running, jumping, throwing).

The athlete has to manage his strength/ power to produce optimal performance. It’s not always an all-out effort, but controlled muscle contraction (force) to produce a given motion sequence to win. The more aware and accustomed to his power capabilities, the more competent an athlete can be on a given day.

This paper brings scientific literature to common principles: train from simple to complex, work on the weakest link to get most benefit, plan to work smarter. Speed, load, and movement coordination must be adapted to meet the specific requirements of your sport.