Cluster vs. Traditional training programmes: changes in the force-velocity relationship

Abstract

[Abstract]: This randomised controlled study examined the force–velocity rela-tionship changes (force and velocity axis intercepts, slope andestimated maximum power) in response to 5-week training pro-grammes differing in the set configuration. For each session, thetraditional group performed 4 sets of 8 repetitions with 5 min ofrest between sets and exercises, while the cluster group completed16 sets of 2 repetitions with 1 min of rest between sets and 5 minbetween exercises. Both programmes were performed with the 10-repetition maximum load, including bench press, parallel squat, latpull-down and leg curl exercises. Individual force-velocity profileswere obtained for bench press and squat using a linear velocitytransducer before and after the intervention, along with lactate andmechanical performance during the intervention. Results showed inbench press similar changes of the force-velocity profile after bothprotocols (no shift of the slope and higher force and velocity axisintercept values). For the squat, significant changes in the slope (P =0.001) and the velocity intercept (P = 0.002) towards a velocityprofile were observed after cluster but not after traditional training.These results suggest that set configuration may modulate changesof force–velocity relationship, especially for squat.