EVALUATING STRENGTH QUALITIES OF ATHLETES USING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN JUMP PROTOCOLS

Abstract

Understanding the relationships between jump assessments may provide information of an athlete’s strength qualities. Elastic Utilisation Ratio (EUR) is calculated between countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SQJ) height, and is suggested to describe the stretch-shortening cycle ability of an athlete. Yet, knowledge of what constitutes a typical EUR range for an athlete remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess jump performance and the EUR of athletes from two sports (soccer and distance runners) using a portable forceplate. SQJ and CMJ heights were highly correlated (r>.90). Linear regression and standard error of estimate statistics were then used to estimate CMJ height and derive an expected EUR range. It was concluded, those athletes outside this predicted EUR range would benefit from specific training.