Optimum Load in Various Vertical Jumps Support the Maximum Dynamic Output Hypothesis

Abstract

The aim was to generalize the maximum dynamic output (MDO) hypothesis [i. e., the muscle power output in vertical jumps (VJ) is maximized when loaded with one’s own body mass] to variety of VJ. We hypothesized that the subjects’ own body (a) would be the optimal load for maximizing the power output (i. e., the no-load condition) and also (b) reveal the maximum benefits of stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). 13 participants performed the maximum squat and various counter-movement jumps when loaded by approximately constant external force ranging from −40% to  + 40% of their body weight (BW). Regarding the first hypothesis, the differences in both the peak and mean power recorded under different load magnitudes revealed maxima close to no-load condition (i. e., from −3% BW to  + 8% BW; R²=0.65–0.96; all P<0.01). Regarding the second hypothesis, the differences in performance between VJ executed with and without SSC also revealed maxima close to no-load conditions (0–2% BW), while the same differences in the power output were observed under relatively low positive loads (14–25% BW; R²=0.56–0.95; all P<0.01). The findings support the concept that maximal power output occurs close to one’s own body mass during VJ with and without SSC, thereby providing additional support to MDO hypothesis.

Key words

power - MDO hypothesis - counter-movement - force-velocity relationship

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