Impact of an incremental running test on jumping kinematics in endurance runners: can jumping kinematic explain the post activation potentiation phenomenon?
Abstract This study aimed to determine whether kinematic data during countermovement jump (CMJ) might explain post activation potentiation (PAP) phenomenon after an exhausting running test. Thirty three trained endurance runners performed the Leger Test; an incremental test which consists of continuous running between two lines 20 m apart. CMJ performance was determined before (pre test) and immediately after the protocol (post test) Sagittal plane, video of CMJs was recorded and kinematic data were obtained throughout 2 Dimensional analysis. In addition to the duration of eccentric and concentric phases of CMJ, hip, knee and ankle angles were measured at four key points during CMJ: the lowest position of the squat, take off, landing, and at the lowest position after landing. Additionally, heart rate was monitored, and rate of perceived exertion was recorded at post test. Analysis of variance revealed a significant improvement in CMJ (p 0.002) at post test. Cluster analysis grouped according to whether PAP was experienced (responders group: RG, n 25) or not (non responders group: NRG, n 8) relative to CMJ change from rest to post test. RG significantly improved (p 0.001) the performance in CMJ, whereas NRG remained unchanged. Kinematic data did not show significant differences between RG and NRG. Thus, the data suggest that jumping kinematic does not provide the necessary information to explain PAP phenomenon after intensive running exercises in endurance athletes.
Sports biomechanics