The Relationship between Components of the Dynamic Strength Index and the Slope of the Force-Velocity Profile in the Loaded Countermovement Jump in Resistance-Trained Males and Females

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the dynamic strength index (DSI) and the lower-body Force-velocity (F-v) profile. Eighty-six (n = 58 females) resistance-trained individuals were recruited to perform both the DSI and F-v profile testing protocols to evaluate this relationship, as well as relationships between the components that comprise each test.  Spearman correlations were calculated between DSI, F-v profile slope, countermovement jump (CMJ) peak force (PF), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) PF, and CMJ peak velocity (PV) across a series of loading conditions from an unloaded CMJ to an additional 100% bodyweight (BW) CMJ condition.  No significant correlations (r_s = 0.01; p > 0.05) were found between the DSI value and the F-v profile slope.  Significant correlations were found between the DSI and CMJ/IMTP PF (r_s range = -0.63 to 0.22; p < 0.05) and between CMJ/IMTP PF and measures of CMJ PV (r_s range = 0.45 to 0.73; p < 0.05) across the loading conditions.  Results suggest that the DSI is not correlated to the F-v profile slope. Two different means of evaluating muscular force in athletes are not correlated; we suggest that athletes require specific evaluations for specific performance characteristics when assessing muscular force.