Uribe, B., Nguyen, D., Nishimura, K., Brown, L. E., Coburn, J. W., & Judelson, D. A. (2008). Relationship between maximum isometric force and maximum velocity. ACSM 55th Annual Meeting Indianapolis, Presentation Number, 1612.

"Understanding the relationship between strength and velocity is critical, especially for individuals who design training programs for athletes. Individuals interested in improving performance should understand the influence of each of these performance parameters." This study examined relationships between maximum voluntary isometric force (MVIC), maximum velocity with 30% of MVIC (30VM), rate of velocity development of 30VM, and vertical jump height. In session 1, kinesiology students (N = 41) performed three maximal isometric pulls (MVIC) with one minute rest between repetitions. Forty-eight hours later in session 2, Ss performed three dynamic high pulls with 30% of MVIC (one minute rest between trials) and three countermovement vertical jumps (15 seconds rest between trials). All exercises were performed on a force plate.

Significant positive correlations existed between maximum voluntary isometric force and vertical jump (moderate r = 0.715) and between 30% of MVIC and rate of velocity development of 30VM (low r =0.535). A significant low negative correlation was revealed between maximum voluntary isometric force and rate of velocity development of 30VM (r = -0.331). There were no significant correlations between maximum voluntary isometric force and 30% of MVIC, vertical jump and rate of velocity development of 30VM, or 30% of MVIC and vertical jump.

Measures of maximum voluntary isometric force in a pulling movement are only related in a minor way to the vertical jump and rate of velocity development of 30% of MVIC. Maximal velocity at 30% MVIC is not related to vertical jump performance or maximum voluntary isometric force in a pulling movement. These results suggest that maximum force and maximum velocity production are distinct capacities that require specific types of training for each of them to be developed. Training one will not improve the other.

Implication. Slow, high-effort strength activities are unrelated to factors involved in high velocity activities. For example, working out with heavy weights as part of strength training would have no beneficial effect on the velocity of a baseball pitch. Similar weight room work would have no beneficial transfer to moderate-effort moderate-velocity activities such as those involved in rowing and swimming.

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