Changes in Loaded Squat Jump performance following a series of isometric conditioning contraction

Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of performing an isometric conditioning contraction (CC) consisting of two sets of five seconds maximal voluntary contraction in physically active individuals prior to three sets of Loaded Squat Jumps (LSJ). Method: 5 males and 4 females (mean ± SD: age 25 ± 2 years, height 175 ± 10 cm, body mass 70 ± 15 kg) were assessed on their power output, force production, jump height and velocity on three sets of LSJ on two separate sessions. Each participant attended two sessions in randomized order: a control session (CON) and an experimental session (EXP) separated by at least two hours. The EXP session consisted of a 10 min warm-up followed by 2 x 5 seconds isometric CC, this was proceeded by another two minutes of rest before three sets of LSJ were performed, each set separated by a two-minute rest. During the CON session a two-minute rest, followed by three sets of LSJ, replaced the isometric CC sequence. Results: No significant improvement was found on any of the physical parameters assessed, comparing the CON and EXP session (p > 0.05). The results showed a variance on individual response were some subjects performed better after the CC and others did not . Conclusion: In conclusion, this study evaluated the effect of performing an isometric CC prior three sets of LSJ. The results indicate that an isometric CC consisting of two sets of five seconds maximal voluntary contraction is insufficient to enhance the performance in an LSJ.