
Considering the NFL Scouting Combine has recently passed, along with a variety of Pro Day testing outlets taking place, “testing” parameters are a hot topic within the fitness and sports performance world. Therefore, it seems, the notion of testing numbers, such as 40-yard dash times and bench press repetitions, have replaced the old adage of “sports performance”. In a time long ago, the concept of improving ones’ ability to succeed on field of play is far removed from common means of training.
The frequent means of training design if focused upon resistance training and the notion of “strength”. Although many enter a weight room with the allure of mystical numbers in certain resistance exercises, sadly, many go about their training in an incomprehensive design. Most resistance-training enthusiasts implement erroneous method of advancement, aimlessly juxtaposing a myriad of exercises deemed favourable by the masses or so called enhancement specialists.
Whilst contemplating the meaning of “strength”, a broad variety of topics shall provide discussion, depending on the point of emphasis. Strength can be broken down into distinct categories, attacking areas of concentration including absolute, endurance, explosion, acceleration or perhaps the single greatest determinant of resistance success….speed strength.
Speed strength is a unique combination of traits, with “reactive” strength playing a primary role in development. “Reactive strength, which is best described in layman terms as being able to put the brakes on and change direction, switching from an eccentric, yielding action to a concentric, overcoming one. Greater reactive strength will shorten the coupling time (period between eccentric and concentric) and result in greater force and power” (John Davies).
Seeing that a base framework outlines desired improvement of resistance training demands, considerable emphasis upon Newton’s Three Laws of Motion should be placed when seeking knowledge of exercise. Delving into Newton’s Second Law, “the net force on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration”. As the basic definition of the law is explained, the formula of (F=MA) is exhibited. In order to increase the force of resistance, either the weight of the object lifted (Mass) can be increased OR the speed of the particular movement can be increased (Acceleration).
Whilst the increase in mass seems the most appropriate measure, and the most oft employed, in-fact the notion is far from the truth. At the same time mass is increased, it becomes far more likely that postural alignment shall be compromised in order to hoist up the overwhelming amount of weight for most. Continually emphasized, many jump into resistance programs, especially with increased loads, far too early. Instead of increasing the load to one in which a user cannot handle properly, it is best to lighten the load and increase the speed of movement.
In the future, a variety of training measures will be discussed in order to gain maximal benefit from resistance training. The measures presented will not only improve performance on the field, but movements of daily life as well.
To start implementing a completely balanced resistance training program, order the Complex Training Program and follow along with the Mad Science 4-DVD Set.
Jordan Collins
RT professional (Kettlebell specialist) DMC™ Auburn