Gilmore, S. L., Brilla, L. R., Suprak, D. N., & Chalmers, G. R. (2014). Effect of a high-intensity isometric potentiating warm-up on bat velocity. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 46(5), Supplement abstract number 932.

This study examined the acute effect of a high-intensity isometric potentiating warm-up on subsequent maximal horizontal bat velocity in experienced female softball players (N = 28). Isometric potentiating warm-up consisted of three sets of 5-second maximal voluntary contractions held in the early swing phase position, pulling against an immovable device. The warm-up was designed to acutely enhance muscle performance by inducing post-activation potentiation. Because optimal recovery duration following a potentiating warm-up can be highly variable, swing trials were conducted at pre-determined rest intervals (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 minutes) to identify the recovery time which may have allowed for maximal possible benefits. Bat velocity was measured immediately prior to impact with the ball.

The phase specific isometric warm-up elicited increased bat velocity at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 minutes. The maximal horizontal bat velocity was significantly enhanced six minutes following the isometric warm-up protocol. Additionally, a significant quadratic trend was observed, with bat velocity peaking at six minutes and subsequently decreasing.

Implication. A specific high-intensity isometric potentiating warm-up can result in enhanced maximal horizontal bat velocity. [This study would have been improved with a control group that did not receive the treatment but did all the performance measures.]

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