High Performance Sports

Abstract

Problem: Sprinting represents a relevant task in many sports. The correlation of sprinting performance and squatting strength (1RM) has been shown in several investigations. Correlations with maximum strength in a linear isokinetic leg press are still pending. Since different devices produce different relationships and rotational isokinetic measurements show conflicting results, further evidence is needed.Methods: 23 male German junior elite volleyball players (16.721.07 years, 193.00.07 cm, 79.867.46 kg) were investigated. They performed sprints up to 30 meters and isokinetic leg press testing at 2 different velocities (0.1 m/s and 0.7 m/s). In the sprint the following times were recorded: 0-5m, 0-10m, 0-20m, 0-30m, 10-20m, 20-30m.Results: The strength tests revealed mean values of 4389.83 514.95 N (0.1 m/s) and 2690.83370.97 N (0.7 m/s), while the sprint test showed a mean performance of 4.340.17 s (30 m). Correlational analysis showed significant correlations (p<0.05) for relative strength at 0.1 m/s with sprinting performance up to 30m only (r=-0.404 to-0.485), whereas only relative strength at 0.7 m/s showed significant correlations (p<0.01) with the following sections up to 30m (r=-0.536 to -0.747).Discussion: The strength of the lower extremities isa basic requirement for short sprints and should be considered in training. Additionally, in strength testing, different manifestations of strength performance should be taken into account. KEY WORDS: Power, Movement Speed, Strength Testing