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Athletic Performance Specialist

Explosive Empowerment | Clark Gadd Fitness

Explosive Power is one of the most important aspects of almost all Athletic Sports. Many factors contribute to the development of power and it has been controversial for many years as to whether it is best to train heavy with the intent to move quickly or to train light and actually move quickly.

Increasing the power output is a key concern of strength and conditioning coaches as this translates into improved running speed, jump height, throwing capability and many other actions involved in sports performance. Given that the formula for power = force x (distance / Time). Assuming the distance cannot be changed or is the dependent variable as it would be in most cases we have two other numbers in the equation to work with: force and time.

It has been observed that in untrained athletes simply making them stronger (increasing the force) would result in greater power (as measured by jump height) this is only one aspect of the equation and in any case how does this relate sports where there is a low force required such as in running. Is it better to develop power by increasing force production or increase contraction speed and to what extent does one affect the other?

The key to all explosive activities are the ability to develop as much force as possible in the shortest possible time and the muscle’s ability to continue to produce high levels of force as it shortens (considering the limitations of the length tension relationship).

The athlete should be aiming to generate the most amount of force possible at the required/maximum speed. Maximal strength does contribute as all movements start at slow velocities or from a stationary position and so strength is required to initiate the movement. However once the initial movement has begun maximal strength becomes of little relevance, instead specific speed strength becomes more important.

It is important to consider that training results are not always consistent with this principle due to complicated combination of force development characteristics of the muscle that go to developing explosive power not to mention individual coordination and movement pattern. In the studies using untrained subjects simply improving squat movement patterns will likely improve vertical jump height.

At Clark Gadd Fitness, we understand not only the importance of Explosive Athletic Ability, but can help you, as an Athlete, achieve excellence in this significant area. Call us today at 937-243-8896.