Post Activation Potentiation of Vertical Jumping Performance Using an Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull

Abstract

Strength and Conditioning professionals have been using maximal intensity conditioning activities prior to explosive activities to improve power development for athletes. Previous research has shown that this method of training can be beneficial depending on the type of conditioning activity being performed. One method is the use of an isometric mid-thigh pull. This is an ideal option, especially in field settings, because of ease of equipment access and set-up, however, there has been limited research regarding its use as a conditioning activity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to further investigate the use of an isometric mid-thigh pull on vertical jumping performance of the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and drop jump (DJ). Twenty resistance trained individuals (13 males, 7 females; age: 23.4±6.1 years; mass: 78.4±13.5 kg; height: 1.75±0.1 m; training experience: 5.9±4.2 years) participated in the study. Performance during three different jumping activities (SJ, CMJ, DJ) was measured both pre- and post- isometric mid-thigh pull. Jump height, peak joint moments, power, and work of the hip, knee, and ankle were reported for the propulsion phase of each jumping activity. For the squat jump there was no significant improvement in jump height, however, there was a significant increase in peak knee joint moment and a decrease in peak hip joint moment. For both the countermovement jump and drop jump there was a significant increase in jump height. For the countermovement jump this was attributed to increased peak hip joint power and work, and ankle work. For the drop jump this was due to increased peak ankle moment and increased peak hip power. The findings of this study indicate that the isometric mid-thigh pull is an effective conditioning activity for improving performance during subsequent explosive jumping activities.