Relationship Between Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull Force, Sprint Acceleration Mechanics and Performance in National-Level Track and Field Athletes

This study aimed to examine the relationships between isometric mid-thigh pull maximal force (IMTPF), sprint mechanics, and performance. Fifteen national-level track and field athletes (sprinters and hurdlers) performed three maximal-effort isometric mid-thigh pulls on a force plate and two 30 m spr...

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Main Authors: Ioannis Stavridis, Maria Zisi, Gavriil G. Arsoniadis, Gerasimos Terzis, Charilaos Tsolakis, Giorgos P. Paradisis
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Applied Sciences
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/3/1089
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Summary:This study aimed to examine the relationships between isometric mid-thigh pull maximal force (IMTPF), sprint mechanics, and performance. Fifteen national-level track and field athletes (sprinters and hurdlers) performed three maximal-effort isometric mid-thigh pulls on a force plate and two 30 m sprints. The IMTPF, the sprint mechanical variables (theoretical maximum horizontal force (F<sub>0</sub>), velocity (v<sub>0</sub>), and power (P<sub>max</sub>)), as well as the sprint performance data at 5 m distance intervals, were collected. Pearson’s product–moment correlation analysis revealed large linear associations between IMTPF and v<sub>0</sub> (r = 0.65, R<sup>2</sup> = 0.42, <i>p</i> = 0.009), as well as negative linear relationships between IMTPF and sprint times of 15 m (r = −0.53, R<sup>2</sup> = 0.28, <i>p</i> = 0.043), 20 m (r = −0.55, R<sup>2</sup> = 0.30, <i>p</i> = 0.033), 25 m (r = −0.57, R<sup>2</sup> = 0.33, <i>p</i> = 0.025), and 30 m (r = −0.60, R<sup>2</sup> = 0.36, <i>p</i> = 0.019). The F<sub>0</sub>, P<sub>max</sub>, and sprint times to 5 m and 10 m were not significantly correlated with the IMTPF (<i>p</i> < 0.05). The study results highlight that during the late acceleration phase (>15 m), the capacity to generate horizontal force at high running velocities is related to the ability to develop maximal force during isometric contractions.
ISSN:2076-3417