Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research最新文献

Abstract: Furuhashi, Y, Muratomi, K, Hasegawa, T, Yoshida, T, Tanigawa, S, and Maemura, H. Effect of attentional focus on jump exercises in track and field athletes ∼ countermovement jump vs. drop jump ∼. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): 186-190, 2026-The attentional focus strategy (AFS) has been shown to affect countermovement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ). However, the effects of AFS on CMJ and DJ in athletes who are familiar with jumping are expected to differ because of differences in exercise difficulty. This study examined the effects of AFS on CMJ and DJ. Self-assessment of performance and understanding of instructions at each focus of attention were also investigated. Nineteen male collegiate track and field athletes performed 2 trials of CMJ and DJ for each condition. The conditions used were internal focus of attention (INT), external focus of attention, and neutral focus of attention (NEUT). In DJ, reactive strength index and peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) were higher for NEUT than for INT ( p < 0.05), and knee joint flexion displacement was smaller for NEUT than for INT ( p < 0.05). In CMJ, there was no significant difference in jump height or peak vGRF between conditions ( p > 0.05), while knee joint flexion displacement was smaller for NEUT than for INT ( p < 0.05). Countermovement jump was significantly higher than DJ in self-assessment of performance and understanding of instructions. The advantage of NEUT was especially pronounced in DJ than in CMJ. In addition, DJ performance tended to be higher when understanding instructions was high. These results indicate that the AFS was more effective when the difficulty of the exercise task was higher, suggesting that it is important to use instructions that are easily understood by the athlete.

Abstract: van den Hoek, DJ, van den Hoek, AK, Latella, C, Bastia, D, and Garrett, JM. The evolution of normative strength values in powerlifting 2000 to 2024: A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): e147-e154, 2026-We aimed to identify and describe the evolution of normative strength values in unequipped, drug-tested powerlifting athletes this century, and provide recommendations for the frequency of future normative data updates. Competition data were sourced from openpowerlifting.org for athletes aged ≥12 years competing in unequipped, drug-tested events between 2000 and 2024. Absolute and relative strength values (squat, bench press, deadlift, and summative total) were analyzed by sex and United Nations age classifications. Spearman's rho was used to assess trends in median strength values over time. The sample comprised 850,972 entries (mean [ SD ] age: 30.3 [13.3] years, body mass 82.4 [21.2] kg). From 2000 to 2024, median male squat increased from 185 to 200 kg ( ρ = 0.130), and female deadlift from 114 to 142.5 kg ( ρ = 0.199). Weak-to-moderate increases in absolute and relative strength were observed in squat and deadlift performance across most age categories, with the most pronounced improvements occurring among adolescents and young adults. Bench press strength showed minimal change for males (129-125 kg to 127.5 kg; ρ = -0.041, p < 0.001) and weak improvements for females (50-55 kg to 65 kg; ρ = 0.131, p < 0.001). Comparison with earlier pooled norms revealed that current medians frequently exceed historical values. For squat and deadlift, median values typically increase by 2.5-7.5 kg within a 5-year period, representing a minimally important performance difference for competitive outcomes. Therefore, we recommend normative data be updated at 5-year intervals to reflect current performance benchmarks in these lifts.

Abstract: Yao, L, Gan, J, Romagnoli, M, Liu, D, and Staiano, W. Tissue flossing: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on range of motion, pain, muscle strength, and performance. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): 225-237, 2026-This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the acute effects of tissue flossing (TF) on joint range of motion (ROM), pain, muscle strength, and exercise performance in healthy individuals, also examining how subjects and intervention factors modify its efficacy. Databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, Cochrane Library) were searched through September 2025 for randomized controlled and crossover trials involving TF in healthy subjects. Two independent reviewers handled screening, extraction, methodological quality assessment (Physiotherapy Evidence Database [PEDro] scale), and evidence grading (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation). We conducted meta-analyses, meta-regressions, and subgroup analyses by gender, training status, application site, and band pressure. Twenty studies ( n = 480) were included. Tissue flossing produced a trivial but significant ROM increase (Hedges' g = 0.19; 95% CI 0.05-0.33; p = 0.01). No significant effects appeared for muscle strength, muscle function, pain, sprint, or jump outcomes. Effectiveness varied by individual and intervention characteristics. The quality of evidence was moderate. Tissue flossing may acutely enhance joint ROM but does not significantly affect performance, and its benefits depend on individual and protocol variables. However, these conclusions are limited by the moderate quality of the available evidence, underscoring the need for more rigorous studies.

Abstract: Cantwell, CJ, Schroeder, ZS, Marshall-Ciochon, LK, Campbell, BA, Taber, CB, and Suchomel, TJ. Force production and barbell velocity characteristics across multiple sets of different accentuated eccentric loading conditions. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): 127-135, 2026-The purpose of this study was to examine the impact that multiple accentuated eccentric loaded (AEL) back squat sets have on force production and barbell velocity characteristics within 2 different loading conditions. Sixteen resistance-trained men performed 3 sets of 3 back squat repetitions while using 100% of their 1 repetition maximum (1RM) during the eccentric phase of the first repetition and either 60% (100-60) or 80% (100-80) 1RM on the concentric phase of the first repetition and the eccentric-concentric phases of the subsequent 2 repetitions. Braking and propulsion net mean force, duration, and net impulse as well as mean and peak barbell velocity were compared between loading schemes and sets using a series of 2-way repeated measures ANOVA. Significantly greater propulsion net mean force and mean barbell velocity were produced during the 100-60 condition than during the 100-80 condition across all sets ( p < 0.001). In addition, significantly greater ( p < 0.001) set-averaged braking net mean force and net impulse and peak barbell velocity were produced during the 100-60 condition while greater braking and propulsion duration ( p < 0.001) and net impulse ( p = 0.031) were produced during the 100-80 condition. Within each loading condition, trivial-small differences existed across sets for all variables ( g ≤ 0.39). Multiple sets of AEL back squats can be prescribed using 100-60 and 100-80 loading schemes without negatively affecting force or velocity characteristics. Strength and conditioning practitioners may prescribe 100-60 to enhance rapid force production characteristics and 100-80 to provide a strength stimulus to enhance force development.

Abstract: Darragh, IAJ, Egan, B, Nolan, D, and Bennett, KE. Predicting a successful attempt in raw powerlifting. A nonlinear mixed logistic regression analysis. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): e138-e146, 2026-This study aimed to predict successful lift attempts in raw powerlifting by examining the influence of jump size (the absolute difference in weight between consecutive attempts) and other factors, using a logistic regression model with nonlinear splines. Data from 93,333 lifters (62,679 males, 30,654 females) across 6,979 International Powerlifting Federation competitions were analyzed. The data set was partitioned into training (80%) and test (20%) sets, with sex-specific models developed to account for class imbalance. Predictors included jump size, lift type (squat, bench press, deadlift), attempt transition (first-to-second or second-to-third), and covariates such as body mass, age, and opening attempt weight. Random effects for lifter identity were included to control for individual performance variability. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results revealed that jump size significantly influenced success rates, with effects varying by lift type, attempt transition, and sex. For male lifters, moderate jump sizes (5-20 kg) improved squat and deadlift success, but success declined with jumps >20 kg, especially on third attempts. Bench press success increased slightly with jump sizes <10 kg but dropped sharply beyond that-more so in third attempts. For female lifters, squat success improved only with small jumps (≤8 kg); jumps >10 kg significantly reduced success, particularly on third attempts. In the bench press, female lifters showed an almost linear decline in success with increasing jump size on second attempts, with third-attempt success decreasing sharply beyond 4 kg. Female deadlift success followed a similar pattern to squats but showed slightly greater tolerance, with optimal jumps approximately 9-11 kg. In both sexes, third attempts consistently had lower success rates than second attempts. These findings highlight the nuanced role of jump size in attempt success and provide actionable insights for competition strategy. Coaches and lifters can use these results to optimize attempt selection, particularly in balancing risk and reward across attempts.

Abstract: Tuncer, D, Altay, E, and Furuncu, B. Physical performance in young adult women with high femoral anteversion. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): e131-e137, 2026-Women with high femoral anteversion (HFA) demonstrate significantly increased hip internal rotation and anteversion angles than controls, which may affect lower extremity biomechanics. This cross-sectional observational study aimed to evaluate the impact of HFA on physical performance in young adult women. Twenty-two women with HFA (age 21.36 ± 1.89 years) and 22 age-matched controls (age 22.23 ± 2.05 years) were assessed. Femoral anteversion was assessed using both the Craig test and goniometric measurements of hip internal and external rotation. Physical performance was evaluated using sit-and-reach flexibility test, hand-grip strength, back-leg-chest dynamometry, double- and single-leg horizontal jump tests, and 6-minute walk test. The HFA group exhibited significantly increased internal rotation and decreased external rotation ranges of motion, along with higher femoral anteversion angles as determined by the Craig test ( p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found between groups for most physical performance measures ( p > 0.05), although back-leg-chest strength tended to be lower in the HFA group ( p = 0.05, moderate effect size). These findings suggest that despite marked anatomical differences, physical performance in young adult women with HFA is largely comparable with controls. Future research should investigate symptomatic individuals and the potential functional impact of higher anteversion angles.

Abstract: Bocking, C, Marvin, L, Coutts, AJ, and McLean, BD. Measuring physical characteristics and physical capacities in rugby union: A systematic review. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): 238-252, 2026-Performance in rugby union is underpinned by players' physical characteristics (e.g., anthropometrics) and physical capacities (e.g., aerobic capacity, speed, strength, and power). Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of which physical attributes and abilities contribute to rugby union performance to design effective physical preparation strategies. The primary objective of this review was to systematically assess the available literature examining physical characteristics and capacities in rugby union players, with a particular focus on positional groups and level of competition. The secondary aim was to describe the testing methods used to assess these physical characteristics and capacities. A total of 445 studies met the inclusion criteria through electronic and manual searches. These studies used a wide range of testing methods and reported outcomes across key physical performance constructs: anthropometry, change of direction, linear speed, aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, strength, and power. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the applied testing, assessment, and outcome measures of physical qualities that might be crucial for rugby union. Owing to the lack of empirical evidence, practitioners should at least rely on a theoretical framework to guide the selection of test batteries that may enhance rugby performance or align with a specific game model. This review summarizes the existing literature on physical characteristics and capacities in rugby union. The growing availability of technology and testing methods has expanded the range of assessment options for researchers and practitioners. It is essential to identify which physical characteristics and capacities contribute to rugby performance when selecting relevant tests and outcome metrics.

Abstract: Mukandi, I. Influence of competitive match play on countermovement jump performance, lower-limb isometric strength, and self-reported subjective measures 40 hours postmatch in professional soccer. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): 206-217, 2026-This study investigated the impact of competitive match play on countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, hamstrings and adductor isometric strength, and subjective self-reported measures 40 hours postcompetitive match play in professional soccer players. Twenty-eight professional players completed baseline assessments during preseason. Assessment 40 hours postmatch was limited to players who played ≥60 minutes, with players grouped into 2 categories based on minutes played: 60-89 minutes or 90-110 minutes. Baseline measures for subjective self-reported measures were collected 24 hours before each match. Across both groups, significant reductions ( p < 0.05) were observed in all outcome, ratio, and driver metrics except for eccentric mean force. All strategy metrics significantly increased ( p < 0.05). Minutes played and match demands were not significantly associated with CMJ performance (τ b = -0.07 to 0.16 and τ b = -0.28 to 0.00, respectively). Prone isometric 0° showed nonsignificant reductions ( p > 0.05) in both conditions with trivial to small effects. Significant reductions ( p < 0.05) were observed for both conditions for the supine 90° hamstring test, however minutes played, and match demands were not significantly associated with a reduction in performance (τ b = -0.04 to -0.01 and τ b = -0.27 to 0.21). Short lever hip adduction results showed nonsignificant reductions ( p > 0.05) in the 60-89 minutes group, but significant decreases ( p < 0.001) were observed for the dominant limb, nondominant limb, and total score in the 90-110 minutes condition. However, minutes played and match demands were not significantly associated with reduction in adductor isometric strength (τ b = 0.18-0.22 and τ b = -0.15 to 0.11). Subjective measures revealed significant reductions in sleep quality ( p < 0.05) and composite scores ( p < 0.001), and significant increases in muscle soreness ( p < 0.001) across both conditions. Mood was only significantly reduced ( p < 0.05) in the 90-110 minutes condition. No significant associations were found between minutes played, match demand, and self-reported subjective scores (τ b = -0.07 to 0.05 and τ b = -0.09 to 0.00).

Abstract: Buechel, CM, Pumpa, KL, Etxebarria, N, and Minehan, M. Expert consensus on weight management strategies for strength and physique athletes before and after competition. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): e155-e163, 2026-Strength and physique athletes undergo repeated cycles of weight loss and weight gain to optimize body composition for competition, often experiencing periods of low-energy availability and related health and performance risks. Postcompetition recovery strategies remain poorly understood. This study aims to achieve expert consensus on dietary recommendations for weight management strategies in the context of requiring weight loss for competition and weight restoration afterward. Fifteen international bodybuilding and powerlifting experts, including coaches and dietitians, participated in a 3-round Delphi survey. Round 1 collected responses to open-ended questions relating to weight management around competition periods. Responses were thematically analyzed into 85 statements and recirculated for round 2 where subjects rated their level of agreement with each statement. Round 3 consisted of revised statements that had previously failed consensus (30 revised and 11 new). Agreement was reached on 75 statements total (consensus threshold of ≥70%) relating to individualized weight management strategies, weight loss methods, and peaking protocols. The 21 statements that failed to reach consensus pertained to refeeding strategies for postcompetition recovery. Experts emphasized structured refeeding approaches, with most agreeing that bodybuilders require 1-6 months for physiologic recovery and a 10-15% body weight regain. Reverse dieting was not favored, with experts recommending an initial acute energy increase followed by a gradual rate of gain. Powerlifters required less restrictive postcompetition dietary recovery strategies, with most returning to off-season training within 1-2 weeks. Findings highlight the importance of athlete education, individualized weight management strategies, and structured recovery planning.

Abstract: Nguyen, AP, Kisita, V, Van Cant, J, Monnet, T, and Bosquet, L. Reproducibility of rate of perceived exertion-based self-selected running speeds on indoor track and treadmill conditions in recreational runners. J Strength Cond Res 40(2): e125-e130, 2026-This study evaluates the reproducibility of self-selected speeds at a rate of perceived exertion (RPE) of 3/10 in both track and treadmill conditions. It also investigates the differences between 2 conditions: i.e., track versus treadmill and 2 RPE instructions, i.e., 3/10 and 8/10. In addition, it compares spatiotemporal parameters across conditions and RPE levels. Fifty-five recreational runners completed six 1-km runs under randomized conditions: 4 at 3/10 and 2 at 8/10 RPE on both track and treadmill. Spatiotemporal parameters, heart rate, and self-selected speeds were recorded. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement ( SEM ), and minimal detectable change (MDC). Statistical significance for all tests was set at α = 0.05. Self-selected speeds showed excellent reliability on both surfaces (ICC = 0.93-0.97). The track showed lower SEM (0.3 km·h -1 ) and MDC (0.7 km·h -1 ) values compared with the treadmill ( SEM : 0.6 km·h -1 ; MDC: 1.6 km·h -1 ). Speeds were 20% slower at 3/10 RPE and 10% slower at 8/10 RPE on the treadmill. Treadmill running exhibited longer contact times (+13%), shorter flight times (-35%), and shorter step lengths (-6%) at 3/10 RPE, with similar trends observed at 8/10 RPE. Rate of perceived exertion appears to be a reliable and practical tool for monitoring and prescribing running intensity levels. The slower treadmill speeds at comparable RPE levels may help reduce biomechanical loading on the lower limb joints, offering advantages for rehabilitation. However, differences in biomechanics and perceived effort between treadmill and track running highlight the need for context-specific applications in training and rehabilitation.