Reliability and usefulness of half-squat 1RM estimation through movement velocity in U18 soccer players

Abstract

Introduction: Assessment of strength in youth athletes using a safety, time-efficient and reliable test is crucial for strength and conditioning professionals. The purpose of this study w as to examine the reliability of the one-repetition maximum (1RM) estimation through movement velocity in youth soccer players. In addition, the relationships betw een 1RM estimation w ith peak pow er (PP), jumping and sprinting performance w ere checked. Material and methods: Tw enty-two youth soccer players (16.8±0.6 years) took part in the study. Participants completed a 1RM estimation in the half-squat, squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ) and 30m sprint in three different occasions. Results: The 1RM estimation show ed good absolute (SEM<10%) and relative (ICC>0.7) reliability scores. The estimated 1RM value w as significantly low er in the trial 1 compared to the trials 2 and 3. The estimated 1RM and the PP output show ed significant correlations (r=0.538-0.560) w ith jumping and sprinting performance. Discussion: These data suggest the n ecessity to perform at least one familiarization session to obtain a reliable 1RM estimation through movement velocity in youth soccer players. Once youth soccer players are familiarized w ith the 1RM estimation protocol, coaches could use this evaluation to obtain a reliable measure of players' maximal strength in a time-efficient w ay.