An investigation into the effect of a pre-performance strategy on jump performance

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the effect that different components, making up a commonly used pre-performance preparation strategy, have on jump height performance. Sixteen male collegiate athletes (age, 21.38 ± 0.52 years; height, 1.79 ± 0.07 m; and body mass, 75.1 ± 5.26 kg) performed a preparation strategy involving a cycle ergometer warm-up, followed by a dynamic stretch component, and finishing with heavy back squats. This intervention was repeated to test countermovement, squat or drop jump performance after each component of the preparation strategy, with electromyographic activity measured during each jump test. Significant increases (p < 0.05) in jump height and electromyographic activity were noted, with a stepwise increase in performance from pre- to post-warm-up, increased further by the dynamic stretch component and again increased after the back squat.