Power and Maximum Strength Relationships During Performance of Dynamic and Static Weighted Jumps

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship of the 1 repetition maximum (1RM) squat to power output during countermovement and static weighted vertical squat jumps. The training experience of subjects (N = 22, 87.0 +/- 15.3 kg, 14.1 +/- 7.1% fat, 22.2 +/- 3.8 years) ranged from 7 weeks to 15+ years. Based on the 1RM squat, subjects were further divided into the 5 strongest and 5 weakest subjects (p <or= 0.05). Squat jumps were performed with a countermovement or statically at 2 different sessions spaced 1 week apart. Jumps were performed with weights ranging from 10 to 100% of the 1RM squat. A maximum effort was made for each trial; subjects performed jumps (feet left the floor) with weights up to approximately 90% of 1RM. Squat-jump power was determined using the V-scope 120. Results indicate strong correlations (r = 0.77-0.94) between the 1RM squat and both countermovement and static jump power up to 90% of 1RM. The highest power outputs for both jump conditions occurred at 10% of the 1RM and decreased as the relative intensity increased. Comparisons of weak and strong subjects indicate that as maximum strength increases the percentage of 1RM at which peak power occurs also increases (40 vs. 10% of 1RM). From a practical aspect, to improve jumping power output, these results suggest that improving maximum strength should be a primary component of training programs and that strength training should shift from lighter (10% 1RM) to heavier (40% 1RM) loads.