Velocity-Based Training From Theory To Application
Velocity-Based Training From Theory To Application
Velocity-Based Training From Theory To Application
From Theory to
Application
Jonathon Weakley, PhD,1,2 Bryan Mann, PhD,3 Harry Banyard, PhD,4 Shaun McLaren, PhD,2,5 Tannath Scott, PhD,2,6
and Amador Garcia-Ramos, PhD7,8
1
AU1 School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Campus University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia;
2
Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett
AU2 University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom; 3Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of
Miami, Miami, Florida; 4Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne,
Australia; 5England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom; 6School
of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia; 7Department of Sports Sciences and
Physical Conditioning, Faculty of Education, Universidad Catolica de la Santisima Concepcion, Concepción, Chile;
and 8Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided
in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal’s Web site (http://journals.lww.com/nsca-scj).
WHAT IS VELOCITY-BASED
specific resistance training loads relative KEY WORDS:
TRAINING?
VBT; 1RM prediction; load-velocity pro-
Address correspondence to Dr. Jonathon VBT is a term that covers a wide array file; periodization; fatigue; statistics
Weakley, Jonathon.weakley@acu.edu.au. of training topics and approaches. The
2 VOLUME 00 | NUMBER 00 | MONTH 2020 Copyright Ó National Strength and Conditioning Association
Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
conscientiousness, verbally encourag-
ing statements after each repetition
may provide the greatest benefit (92).
Finally, the chronic delivery of feed-
back during training is known to be
of substantial benefit. Over a 6-week
period, Randell et al. (71) provided
either feedback or no-feedback at the
Figure 1. Velocity-based training continuum highlighting the varying emphasis on completion of each repetition of the
velocity within a training program. jump squat and observed small to mod-
erately greater improvements in stand-
ing broad jump (effect size [ES] 5
WHY VELOCITY? of feedback can cause improvements in 0.28) and 30 m sprint performance
Velocity is commonly used over other performance in male (96) and female (ES 5 0.46). In addition, recent
kinetic or kinematic outputs (e.g., (93), adults (92) and adolescents research by Weakley et al. (90) has
power) when resistance training for 3 (93,96), and professional (1,59) and highlighted greater improvements in
reasons. First, it is well established that nonprofessional (50) athletes. Not only 10- and 20-m sprint performance (ES
as an external mass is increased, reduc- do these improvements occur instanta- 5 0.69 and 0.71, respectively), jump
tions in lifting velocity occur (45). This neously during training (93,96) but height (ES 5 0.21), and 3RM squat
loss of velocity continues until a 1RM also when feedback is supplied and and bench press strength (ES 5 0.28
load is achieved which corresponds then removed, performance returns and 0.21, respectively) when feedback
with the minimum/terminal velocity to baseline levels (50). These changes is provided after each repetition of each
threshold (V1RM) (45). Second, there in performance have been found to exercise across a 4-week mesocycle.
is a nearly perfect linear relationship occur alongside improvements in Also, of interest for the strength and
between velocity and intensity as a per- psychological characteristics, with conditioning practitioner, was that this
centage of maximum ability (i.e., % of increases in motivation and compet- study emphasized the benefit of pro-
1RM). This has been demonstrated con- itiveness being demonstrated when viding feedback of performance when
sistently across a range of exercises and feedback of velocity performance is performing sprint drills (Table 1). AU5
submaximal loads (13,27). Third, a com- provided (92,93,96–98). Sprint times and average velocity T1
mon element to many definitions of across a known distance can easily be
Although feedback of velocity can eas-
exercise-induced fatigue is that as fatigue conveyed to athletes and are believed
ily be provided within the training rou-
increases, there is a transient decline in to promote similar improvements in
tine, the frequency, method of delivery,
muscle fiber shortening speeds, relaxa- motivation and feelings of competitive-
and personality of the athlete should
tion times, and force-generating capac- ness within and between athletes as
be considered. Recent research (59)
ity that cause subsequent reductions in feedback during resistance train-
has demonstrated that different modes
voluntary exercise velocity (33,74). Put ing (90).
of feedback delivery influence perfor-
simply, as fatigue accrues, exercise veloc- mance adaptations. Nagata et al. (59)
ity decreases. By acknowledging these THE DIFFERENT TYPE OF
has shown immediate improvements VELOCITY VARIABLES AND WHEN
fundamental concepts, practitioners and greater long-term physical devel- TO USE THEM
can use velocity outputs to accurately opment of loaded jump ability when The 2 velocity variables most com-
and objectively prescribe external loads verbal feedback of barbell velocity is monly used in practice and scientific
and training volumes for each session,
supplied after each repetition. This research are mean velocity (MV) (i.e.,
irrespective of fluctuations in fatigue and
was compared with the provision of the average velocity across the entire
athlete readiness.
average set velocity or a visual record- concentric phase) and peak velocity
USING VELOCITY TO PROVIDE ing of the set. Furthermore, it is (PV) (i.e., the maximum instantaneous
FEEDBACK AND ENHANCE acknowledged that athletes may have velocity reached during the concentric
PERFORMANCE a preference of whether they are visu- phase) (68,83). However, mean propul-
The use of feedback during resistance ally or verbally informed of their per- sive velocity (MPV) (i.e., the average
training is a powerful tool for acute per- formance outcomes (92). These velocity from the start of the concen-
formance enhancement and adaptation. differences may be due to intrinsic or tric phase until the acceleration is less
Although feedback can occur in many extrinsic motivating factors (i.e., com- than gravity [29.81 m$s22]) has also
forms, visual and verbal feedback of bar- petition within or between athletes) been proposed as an alternative (77).
bell velocities have received the most and levels of athlete conscientiousness The difference between the MPV and
investigation (1,50,59,92,93,96,98). It (92). However, it should be noted that MV is that the latter does not account
has been demonstrated that these forms in athletes with low levels of for the braking phase of the movement.
3
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
Table 1
Feedback variables and their effects on acute-training performance
Variable
Frequency Frequency after each repetition has been shown to have greater effects than after each set
(59)
Quantitative vs. qualitative Quantitative feedback of velocity enhances performance greater than observing video
recording of previous exercise (59).
Conscientiousness Athletes with low levels of conscientiousness have the greatest improvements in kinematic
outputs when verbal encouragement is supplied (92).
Motivation and competitiveness When visual feedback of kinematic outputs are supplied, improvements are observed in both
males and females (92,93,96–98)
Intrinsically vs. extrinsically Intrinsically motivated athletes may prefer visual feedback, while extrinsically motivated may
motivated athletes prefer to hear feedback (92).
Encouragement Verbally encouraging statements can enhance barbell velocity and power output (92).
However, it is our opinion that MV and On the other hand, nonballistic var- ONE REPETITION MAXIMUM
PV provide more valuable information iants of exercises are advised for testing PREDICTION METHODS
for strength and conditioning practi- heavier loads (.70% 1RM), with MV One interesting application of VBT is
tioners for both testing and training and MPV providing virtually the same the possibility of estimating 1RM
purposes. information (28,32,76). Therefore, strength from the velocity recorded
when testing “heavy” (.70% 1RM), against submaximal loads. General
MONITORING VELOCITY DURING nonballistic exercises, all velocity vari- load-velocity (L-V) relationships (36)
TESTING ables could be equally valid. and individual L-V relationships (52)
Neuromuscular function can be as- have previously been proposed to
sessed by measuring the velocity value estimate the 1RM. The general L-V rela-
achieved against a given load using tra- MONITORING VELOCITY DURING tionship was introduced by González-
ditional (e.g., bench press or squat) or TRAINING Badillo and Sánchez-Medina (36) who AU6
ballistic (e.g., bench press throw or ver- Although velocity can be used in many used a second-order polynomial regres-
tical jump) exercises (15,66). When ways during training, 3 important ap- sion equation to estimate the %1RM dur-
testing with light/moderate loads plications are (I) estimating the 1RM, ing the bench press exercise. After this
(#70% 1RM), it is recommended that (II) prescribing the volume and relative seminal work, similar equations have
ballistic exercises are used (e.g., bench intensity of the training session based been proposed in other resistance train-
press throw rather than the traditional off the magnitude of velocity loss, and ing exercises (3,5,13,28,30,31,54,65,75).
bench press variant). This removes the (III) increasing motivation and com- Although general L-V relationship equa-
braking portion of the concentric petitiveness through the provision of tions enable a quick estimation of the
movement and can provide greater real-time velocity feedback. Presum- 1RM from the MVrecorded during a sin-
reliability of velocity outcomes ably, all 3 velocity variables could be gle repetition, coaches should be aware
(61,66). However, using MV and equally valid to fulfill the applications of several limitations that may limit their
MPV to measure ballistic performance of points II and III. However, we rec- use in practice. Briefly, the relationship
is problematic because these metrics ommend the use of MV to estimate the between the MV recorded during a single
include the flight phase. Furthermore, 1RM because of its greater reliability repetition and the %1RM may be influ-
MPV values could be even more prob- (when compared with MPV) when enced by the type of exercise (e.g., squat
lematic due to difficulties in detecting lifting light relative loads (23,67). The versus leg press) (13,38,75), execution
the exact moment take-off occurs. This advantage of MV over PV is that the technique (e.g., concentric-only vs.
issue may explain counterintuitive find- former varies less between different de- eccentric-concentric) (28,65), sex (higher
ings reported in the scientific literature vices designed to measure movement values for men at lower %1RM) (3,84),
such as the power developed in a tradi- velocity (22,30), the relationship and measurement device (4,22,26,91). Of
tional exercise (e.g., bench press) being between load and velocity is more lin- even more importance could be that the
greater than its ballistic variant (e.g., ear using MV (31), and that between- MV-%1RM relationship, especially at
bench press throw) (46). Conse- subject variability in the velocity at- light relative loads, is subject-specific
quently, we recommend the use of tained during 1RM attempts may (70). Finally, from a statistical point of
PV for the testing of ballistic exercises. be lower. view, another problem of the general
Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
L-V relationships is an overestimation of associated with individualized L-V pro- compared with using a general V1RM.
the data fit because of the presence of filing is the selection of the V1RM used However, this assumption needs to be
autocorrelation because authors included to predict the 1RM. Previous studies supported with experimental data. To
more than one observation from the have used the individual V1RM (6,73) date, no study has compared the preci-
same participant to calculate the general or mean V1RM for all subjects (24). sion in the estimation of the 1RM when
L-V relationships (60). However, because of the low reliability using the individual and general V1RM.
The individual L-V relationship was pro- of the individual V1RM (6,29,73), and
Since the individual L-V relationship is
posed to overcome the limitations high- the trivial differences between the
highly linear (6,47,73), a solution to
lighted above. The standard test used to between- and within-subject variability
for the V1RM (70), the use of a general reduce the duration of the testing pro-
determine the individual L-V relation- cedure could be to determine the indi-
V1RM for all subjects could be recom-
ship consists of recording MV against vidual L-V relationship from the MV
mended to simplify the testing proce-
multiple submaximal loads (z5 loads) dure. The V1RM reported in the recorded against only 2 loads (i.e., 2-
and, subsequently, modeling the L-V scientific literature for commonly used point method) (24,25). This has been
relationship through a linear regression resistance training exercises is provided demonstrated by Garcı́a-Ramos et al.
to estimate the 1RM as the load associ- in Table 2. It is also possible that using (24) who have shown that the individual
ated with the MV of the 1RM (V1RM) the individual V1RM would provide L-V relationship modeled through the 2-
T2 (6,73) (Table 2). The biggest challenge a more accurate estimation of the 1RM point method provides a more accurate
Table 2
Minimum velocity threshold for commonly used resistance training exercises
Prone pull-up Sánchez-Moreno et al. (78) 52 firefighter candidates 0.20 6 0.05 m/s 0.23 m/s
Muñoz-Lopez et al. (58) 82 resistance-trained males 0.26 6 0.05 m/s
Seated military Balsalobre-Fernándeza et al. (3) 39 resistance trained 0.19 6 0.05 m/s 0.19 m/s
press Garcı́a-Ramosa et al. (29) participants 0.20 6 0.05 m/s
24 healthy participants
Lat pulldown Perez-Castilla et al. (69) 23 healthy participants 0.47 6 0.04 m/s 0.47 m/s
Seated cable row Perez-Castilla et al. (69) 23 healthy participants 0.40 6 0.05 m/s 0.40 m/s
Squat a
Conceição et al. (13) 15 male athletes 0.32 6 0.04 m/s 0.30 m/s
Sánchez-Medina anda González-Badillo 80 strength-trained males 0.32 6 0.03 m/s
(74) 17 strength-trained males 0.24 6 0.06 m/s
Banyard et al. (6) 15 powerlifters 0.23 6 0.05 m/s
Helms et al. (38)
Deadlift Ruf et al. (73) 11 resistance-trained athletes Not stated 0.15 m/s
Helms et al. (38) 15 powerlifters 0.14 6 0.05 m/s
Lake et al. (50) 12 active males 0.16 6 0.05 m/s
Hip-thrust de Hoyo et al. (20) 102 sport science students 0.25 6 0.03 m/s 0.25 m/s
Leg press Conceição et al. (13) 15 male athletes 0.21 6 0.04 m/s 0.21 m/s
a
Smith machine variation of the exercise.
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
estimation of the bench press 1RM per- accuracy of the 2-point method and across training sessions and legitimate
formed in a Smith machine than previ- other velocity-based 1RM prediction fluctuations in velocity that occur from
ously published general L-V methods is expected to be compromised training-induced adaptation. This is crit-
relationships. Furthermore, provided during free-weight lower-body exercises ical, so that decisions regarding training
that 2 distant loads are used (e.g., (6,43,44,52). Therefore, although the load modification can be made with
approximately 45% 1RM and 85% recommendations provided in this sec- a high degree of accuracy. Recent stud-
1RM), the addition of intermediate tion can be followed to obtain an accu- ies have shown that the L-V relationship
loads does not significantly improve rate estimation of the 1RM during some is stable when using MV, PV, or MPV in
the precision in the estimation of the upper-body exercises, it should be noted the free-weight back squat and Smith
1RM (69). The validity of the 2-point that the available scientific evidence in- machine bench press (8,27). In terms of
method has also been confirmed for dicates that velocity recordings cannot meaningful changes in velocity, the
upper-body free-weight exercises (e.g., be used to obtain an accurate estimation smallest detectable difference in MV,
bench pull (31) and bench press (48)) of the 1RM during lower-body exercises PV, and MPV for the free-weight back
and also during the lat pull-down and such as the squat or deadlift. It is squat has been reported to be 60.06–
seated cable row exercises (69), but its hypothesized that discrepancies in the
0.08 m$s21, 60.11–0.19 m$s21, and
validity has never been explored during accuracy of prediction may be due to
60.08–0.11 m$s21, respectively (6). This
lower-body exercises. Therefore, the greater technical complexity of
suggests that if valid velocity measuring
coaches are encouraged to use the 2- lower-body exercises (e.g., squat or
devices are used for monitoring, mean-
point method as an accurate, quick, deadlift) compared with upper-body ex-
ingful changes in velocity between train-
and relatively fatigue-free method to ercises (e.g., bench press or bench pull).
ing sessions are likely to reflect acute
estimate the 1RM during upper-body Finally, it should also be noted that the
exercises. This can be performed in 3 direct measurement of the 1RM is more fatigue or gains in strength. Furthermore,
simple steps: (I) setting of the exercise- reliable than the estimation from the L- it may also allow for the accurate pre-
specific V1RM (found within Table 2), V relationship (24). scription of resistance training load dur-
(II) recording of the MV against a light ing training and across mesocycles.
(z45% 1RM) and a heavy load (z85% DEVELOPING A LOAD-VELOCITY There are 4 simple steps for the devel-
1RM), and (III) modelling of the indi- PROFILE FOR THE PRESCRIPTION opment of an individualized L-V profile
vidual load-velocity relationship and OF MEAN SET VELOCITIES (Table 3) (8). First, the athlete performs T3
determining the 1RM as the load asso- A key aspect of training with L-V pro- a 1RM assessment in the relevant exer-
ciated with the V1RM. However, files is for a coach to differentiate cise to determine their maximum
coaches should be aware that the between normal variation in velocity strength and to allow for monitoring
Table 3
Steps for developing an L-V profile for an athlete in the back squat
Session 1 Session 2
1. Warm-up with dynamic movements and stretches 1. After 48-h rest, the athlete returns and completes repetitions
with 20, 40, 60, 80, and 90% of 1RM
2. Complete 3 repetitions at 20, 40, and 60%. 2. Three repetitions should be used for loads 20–60% and 1
repetition for 80–90%.
3. Complete 1 repetition at 80 and 90%. 3. For sets that involved multiple repetitions (i.e., loads 20–60%),
the repetition with the fastest MV should be recorded.
4. Then 5 maximal attempts at achieving a 1RM are permitted# 4. With this information, individualized L-V profiles can be
constructed within Microsoft Excel using the MV plotted
against relative load and by applying a line of best fit.
5. After successful attempts, barbell load can be increased in 5. A linear regression equation can then be used to modify
consultation with the athlete with loads between 0.5 and 2.5 training loads within and between sessions
kg.
6. The last successful attempt with a full depth squat with
correct technique can be established as the 1RM.
48 hours have been provided between testing occasions.
Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
of velocity against %1RM over time. a “snapshot” of an athlete’s fitness- a “normal” range of performance,
Second (if completing a 1RM assess- fatigue status. For example, when lift- should the test be hypothetically
ment provide at least 24 hours’ recov- ing a fixed external load, changes in repeated over and over (Figure 3). F3
ery), perform an incremental loading peak or mean concentric velocities When assessing changes in perfor-
test. Previous research has used either may be indicative of altered neuromus- mance, the SE can be used to create
method 1: 3 repetitions with 20, 40, cular qualities (91). Reductions in an individual confidence interval (CI)
and 60%, and one repetition with 80 velocity may be symptomatic of around change scores and represent
and 90% 1RM, with sets performed 2 mi- fatigue, overreaching/overtraining, or uncertainty in an observed perfor-
nutes apart (8,9) or method 2: the “2- detraining/maladaptation, whereas mance change (i.e., accounting for
point method” with repetitions per- faster velocities could signify improve- the “noise”). This provides the practi-
formed at 2 approximate loads of ments in neuromuscular capacity or tioner a plausible range of values that
;45% 1RM and ;85% 1RM (24). In acute potentiation (17). are compatible with the data assump-
step 3, the velocity data of the fastest When interpreting an athlete’s velocity- tions (34) (Figure 4, see Appendix 2, F4
repetition from each intensity based testing data, coaches must con- Supplemental Digital Content 2,
F2 (Figure 2A) are plotted against the cor- sider both the reliability of test perfor- http://links.lww.com/SCJ/A278).
responding relative load (%1RM), and mance, as well as the practical
then, a linear line of best fit is applied To know how practically important
importance of a change. The reliability a change might be, coaches must decide
to extrapolate the regression equation of test performance is influenced by
(Figure 2B). The final step is to create on a threshold for a decisive change
measurement error (which is a funda- and evaluate changes against this value.
a velocity table from the regression mental consideration when purchasing
equation. This table uses the MV of Importantly, this concept is entirely
velocity tracking equipment) and nor- separate from the previously discussed
the training set, corresponds with a per- mal variation within the body’s biolog-
centage of maximum, and can be imple- issues of performance reliability, noise,
ical systems. A useful metric to quantify and uncertainty. In a hypothetical
mented in much the same way a coach performance reliability is the within-
would traditionally prescribe from a rel- world where performance is entirely
athlete standard (typical) error (SE). stable and changes only due to system-
ative load (%RM) table (refer to Helms This can be estimated from a group-
T4 et al. (37)). In the example table (Table 4) atic effects (i.e., fitness or fatigue),
based test-retest reliability study (2,39) changes could simply be evaluated
if this athlete wanted to complete 6 rep- or from the trend in an athlete’s individ-
etitions at a “Heavy” intensity, the mean against a threshold that represents
ual test performance repeated across some value representing practical sig-
set velocity should be approximately a theoretically stable period (e.g., days,
0.58 m$s21. This information may be nificance. In this regard, we recom-
weeks, months) (36,41) (see Appendix mend using an anchor-based
particularly useful for practitioners when 1, Supplemental Digital Content 1,
accounting for differing rates in adapta- approach (79), whereby changes can
http://links.lww.com/SCJ/A277). be evaluated against a value represent-
tion and for the adjustment of training
loads within and across training sessions. The SE is reflective of the “typical” ing a “real-world” difference in perfor-
variation in an athlete’s performance mance. For example, an increase of
METHODS TO INTERPRET (e.g., mean concentric velocity) that one-third of the competition-to-
CHANGES IN VELOCITY-BASED are due to random factors causing nat- competition variability in solo athlete
DATA ural fluctuation. Therefore, applying performance, such as weight lifted, best
Velocity-based testing can serve as the SE to observed test scores as a 6 time, distance thrown, etc., results in
a useful tool for coaches to gain value can be used to represent one extra medal every 10 competitions
Figure 2. (A) Mean velocity data attained from an athlete’s L-V profile during the barbell back squat; (B) data, linear regression, and
equation for this athlete’s L-V profile.
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
that occur when relative velocity loss
thresholds are applied and allows for
individualization during each set and at
each load/velocity (89). This diverges
from percentage-based methods that
promotes the strength coach to set
arbitrary repetition and set schemes
(e.g., 4 sets of 10 repetitions) that do
not account for athlete differences,
Figure 4. Hypothetical example of confidence intervals (CIs) applied to a change in daily readiness, or within-session
mean concentric velocity. Data are shown as the change 6 CI, scaled fatigue accrual.
against a minimum practically important difference of 6 0.03 m$s21 (gray Perhaps more important than the con-
area).
trol over training session kinetic and
kinematic outputs is the improved abil-
individuals have different physical and ensure improved prescription and to ity to dictate internal and subsequent
physiological capacities (e.g., marathon mitigate divergency in fatigue and adap- fatigue outcomes by using velocity loss
runners compared to sprinters). How- tive responses, relative velocity loss thresholds (Figure 6). Recent work F6
ever, strength and conditioning practi- thresholds can be implemented (63,89). investigating changes in neuromuscu-
tioners are often taught to use Recent research (89) has highlighted lar function have shown that with each
predictive tables to prescribe resistance the ability of velocity loss thresholds incremental increase in velocity loss
training loads and repetitions to maintain velocity and power outputs (e.g., 10, 20, and 30% velocity loss),
(12,35,80). This is despite the extremely when resistance training (Figure 5). linear reductions in function occur
large variance in the number of repeti- Furthermore, this work has demon- (88). This is supported by earlier work
tions that can be completed with a given strated how these thresholds can by Sanchez-Medina and González-
percentage of maximum (19). For exam- account for differences in individual Badillo (74) that assessed velocity and
ple, at 80% of 1RM, some individuals work capacity. Weakley et al. (89) estimated proximity to concentric fail-
can complete twice as many repetitions showed that when using velocity loss ure. Furthermore, near identical trends
as others (e.g., 8 vs. 16 repetitions) (72). thresholds, changes in mean barbell in perceived effort and metabolic re-
Thus, when prescribing 3 sets of 8 rep- velocity between athletes are possibly sponses also exist (i.e., greater exertion
etitions at 80% of 1RM, some athletes to likely trivial across 5 sets of the back and metabolic responses in line with
will be working to concentric failure, squat. This is in direct contrast to tra- greater increases in velocity loss) (88).
while others will complete these sets ditional prescription methods that These responses have been found to be
with relative ease. This heterogeneity cause very large reductions in velocity consistent within and between athletes
is likely due to a range of factors includ- as exercise goes on (85,94). These dif- and demonstrate exceptional levels
ing training history, gender, absolute ferences in the maintenance of kinetic of reliability within athletes across
strength levels, and recent training and kinematic outputs are due to the moderate- to long-term training peri-
exposure (19,42,72). Consequently, to unique “flexible-repetition” schemes ods (88).
Figure 5. Analysis of changes a powerlifter’s mean concentric velocity from 100-kg warm-up sets of the barbell back squat
throughout a 7-week training phase (raw data are showing in Figure 3). Changes are derived from baseline performance
established during a priori maintenance phase. CI 5 confidence interval; SGPV 5 second-generation p-value.
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
PROGRAMMING WITH VELOCITY- is vital for designing effective training term power-oriented resistance training
BASED TRAINING programs. Several studies have sug- program (64). Therefore, for accurate
Although the ability to have greater gested that the velocity associated with prescription of relative loads, it is
control over training outcomes is an a given percentage of 1RM is consistent advised to periodically assess the L-V
exciting prospect for the strength and across training sessions (3,8,18,24). relationship. Considering this, between
conditioning practitioner, understand- However, it has been shown that the athletes and training sessions, relative
ing the varying methods of program- velocity at a given %1RM may shift losses in exercise velocity cause consis-
ming that are available through VBT due to fatigue (86) or after a short- tent internal and external responses at
AU12 Figure 6. (A) The individual and mean group velocity (SD represented by the shaded area) when training with a 20% velocity loss
threshold across 3 sets of the back squat. Data from Weakley et al. (89). (B) The individual and mean group velocity (SD
represented by the shaded area) when training with 3 sets of the back squat with a set repetition scheme (i.e., 10
repetitions for all participants). Unpublished data from Weakley et al. (95). (C) The mean (6SD) velocity from graphs A and
B. Note the maintenance of velocity in the velocity-based training condition compared with the linear loss of velocity in
the percentage condition.
Table 5
Commonly used velocity-based training methods
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
Figure 7. Acute and chronic responses to training with smaller or larger velocity loss thresholds. MHC 5 myosin heavy chain.
Adapted from (62,63,88,89).
As a result, external loads that are sup- long-term planning. Furthermore, or “fixed” set and repetition schemes.
plied by practitioners are often too light within-session alterations in the external Traditional programming methods
or heavy. Established VBT methods can load can be made by the athlete or provide rigid programming (i.e., a num-
account for these fluctuations by moni- coach by simply referring to the MV of ber of sets and repetitions are pre-
toring velocity during the warm-up and the previous set (21) or the first repeti- scribed), but VBT can mitigate the
training session (89). Two of the most tion of the subsequent set (88,89) to differences in athletes and their physi-
common methods use either (I) a tar- ensure appropriate loading is occurring ological characteristics (89). For exam-
geted training velocity (e.g., an athlete during training. Alternatively, this infor- ple, a fixed number of sets may be
finds an external load within a given mation can be used to guide the termi- applied (e.g., 5 sets) with a flexible rep-
range that is being targeted that day nation of a training session (e.g., if an etition scheme (e.g., athletes exercise
[e.g., 0.70 6 0.05 m$s21]) (89) or (II) athlete consistently cannot meet until a 20% velocity loss has occurred)
a load (as a percentage of 1RM) that required velocities at a given load this (89). Alternatively, a fixed number of
meets a velocity from a previously estab- may indicate fatigue). repetitions could be prescribed (e.g.,
lished L-V profile (21). Both these One unique aspect of programming 25 repetitions) with a flexible number
methods enable reliable and accurate with VBT is that it allows for “flexible” of sets (e.g., each set is terminated
Figure 8. An example of a 6-week daily undulating mesocycle with athletes completing a strength endurance, strength, and power
sessions each week. The bullet point within each connected line signifies the average starting velocity from a given
session (e.g., strength session 1 5 0.54 m$s21). The dotted line indicates the stopping velocity (strength session 1 5 0.43
m$s21). Note the altering starting velocity and changes in velocity loss thresholds. VL 5 velocity loss.
Table 6
Example of how velocity-based training for the back-squat exercise can be applied during a training week with one
match
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1-Match
training wk
Velocity loss Rest 30% velocity loss Rest 20% velocity loss 10% velocity loss Rest Match
threshold day
Intensitya Rest ;0.70 m$s21/;65% Rest ;0.55m$s21/;82% ;1.00–0.60 Rest Match
(;m$s21/ 1RM 1RM m$s21/;30– day
% 1RM) 75% 1RM
Volume Rest ;9 repetitions per set Rest ;4–5 repetitions per ;2–6 repetitions Rest Match
set day
Internal Rest [[[ Metabolic Rest [[ Metabolic response [ Metabolic Rest Match
response response & and perception of response day
perception of effort effort [ 4 perception
of effort
Fatigue Rest [[ Perceived soreness Rest [ Perceived soreness 4Y Perceived Rest Match
response YY Neuromuscular 4Y Neuromuscular soreness day
function function [4
Neuromuscular
function
Velocity loss thresholds, initial intensity, approximate number of repetitions that will be completed, and estimated internal (during training) and
fatigue responses (24 h following training) are supplied are supplied to assist the practitioner. Information adapted from (6,8,9,88,89).
a
Initial velocity (mean concentric velocity) and relative percentage of 1RM may show slight deviations between athletes.
[[[ 5 large increase; [[ 5 moderate increase; [ 5 small increase; 4 5 trivial change; 4Y 5 trivial to small decrease; YY 5 moderate decrease;
1RM 5 one repetition maximum.
13
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
Table 7
Example of how velocity-based training for the back-squat exercise can be applied during a training week with 2 matches
Velocity loss thresholds, initial intensity, approximate number of repetitions that will be completed, and estimated internal (during training) and
fatigue responses (24 h after training) are supplied to assist the practitioner. Information adapted from (6,8,9,88,89).
a
Initial velocity (mean concentric velocity) and relative percentage of 1RM may show slight deviations between athletes.
[ 5 small increase; [ 4 5 trivial to small increase; 4 trivial change; 4Y 5 trivial to small decrease; 1RM 5 one repetition maximum.
when velocity is reduced by 20%, with targeted. For example, block periodiza- greater control and prescription (Fig- F7 F9
athletes implementing as many sets as tion models that use phase potentia- ures 7–9).
necessary to complete the 25 repeti- tion and greater volumes before
tions) (9). With identification of appro- heavier loads and lower volumes can PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR
priate velocity loss cutoffs and their be applied and still follow traditional THE STRENGTH COACH
subsequent fatigue responses, these concepts (17,57). In a block periodized Maximizing performance through
flexible programming methods can model that uses VBT, initial phases physical training is the primary goal of
account for differing rates of fatigue, that aim to promote changes in all strength and conditioning professio-
between-athlete heterogeneity, and strength endurance and improvements nals. Therefore, applying VBT methods
daily readiness (89). This is shown in efficaciously is of great importance. It is
in body composition may use 30%
recent research (89), with flexible pro- acknowledged that individualization
velocity loss thresholds. This could
gramming enabling high levels of con- and greater homogeneity of fatigue re-
be followed by a strength mesocycle
sistency of both velocity and power sponses can occur when VBT is appro-
that allows for greater loads (i.e., lower
outputs between and within athletes priately applied (88,89). However,
when compared with regimented set starting velocities) and a smaller veloc-
strategic implementation can enhance
and repetition schemes based off a per- ity loss threshold (e.g., 20%) that causes
athlete buy-in and improve outcomes.
centage of an athlete’s previous maxi- less peripheral fatigue (63,89). Finally,
Below are practical suggestions that can
T5 mum (19,95). Table 5 outlines some of this could be followed by a strength- assist in the integration of VBT into the
the most commonly applied methods power or tapering mesocycle which training program.
of prescribing sets and repetitions uses a range of initial starting velocities
It has previously been recognized that
using VBT. with a very small velocity loss thresh-
providing feedback to athletes as they
Owing to the ability to accurately pre- old (e.g., 10%). These smaller thresh-
train can enhance velocity and power
scribe training load and volumes, it is olds have been shown to minimize
outputs by up to 10% (92,93,96). Fur-
also feasible to implement VBT in tra- fatigue while also ensuring greater thermore, because of the naturally
ditional programming models. Accu- power outputs during training (89). competitive nature of athletes, by al-
rate load prescription and velocity These concepts can be applied across lowing individuals of similar ability or
loss thresholds (e.g., 10% vs. 30%) that a range of different programming mod- position to train together and observe
induce a desired amount of fatigue can els (e.g., linear, daily/weekly undulat- each other’s kinematic outputs, greater
ensure that specific physical and phys- ing, conjugated) and can assist coaches competition may occur. However, the
iological characteristics can be in applying traditional approaches with intended purpose of the exercise must
Velocity loss thresholds, initial intensity, approximate number of repetitions that will be completed, and estimated internal (during training) and fatigue responses (24 h following training)
[[[ 5 large increase; [[ 5 moderate increase; [ 5 small increase. 4 5 trivial change; 4Y 5 trivial to small decrease; YY 5 moderate decrease; YYY 5 large decrease; 1RM 5 one
provided may cause an athlete to sac-
Match
Match
Match
Match
Match
day
day
day
day
day
rifice technique for greater velocities.
Although a great amount of publicity
has been given to VBT in recent years,
Friday
Rest
Rest
Rest
Rest
sionally attempting to maximize veloc-
ities on exercises that are traditionally
4Y Neuromuscular function
performed for stability and range of
motion development, such as an over-
;0.70 m$s21/;65% 1RM
perception of effort
[ Perceived soreness
Thursday
Initial velocity (mean concentric velocity) and relative percentage of 1RM may show slight deviations between athletes.
than simply strength training, the man-
agement of fatigue is of great importance
Rest
Rest
Rest
Rest
Rest
;9 repetitions per-set
[[ Perceived soreness
Table 8
perception of effort
[[ Perceived soreness
perception of effort
Rest
Rest
Volume
1RM)
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
Table 9
Example of how velocity-based training for the back-squat exercise can be applied during a tapering wk
[ 5 small increase; [ 4 5 trivial to small increase; 4 Trivial change; 4Y 5 trivial to small decrease; 1RM 5 one repetition maximum.
the management of not only acute- sessions. This can enable practitioners congested training or match play. For
fatigue responses (e.g., between sets) to be confident in their exercise pre- example, practitioners are commonly
but also the accrual of fatigue across scription, even during periods of faced with the issue of athletes coming
straight off the training field and into the
weight room. This often means that the
athlete is fatigued and that the loads
prescribed before the training session
are no longer valid. However, VBT does
not face these issues as athletes are pre-
scribed a velocity range rather than
a specific external load. In addition,
because of the many outside stressors
that can impact an athlete (e.g., aca-
demic stress) (54), VBT may support F10
load management (Figure 10). AU7
CONCLUSIONS
VBT uses exercise velocity to inform or
Figure 10. An example of a linear periodization approach to programming the back
enhance training practice. It can be im-
squat with a 20% velocity loss threshold applied across a 10-week training
macrocycle. The bullet point within each connected line signifies the plemented as a tool that works alongside
starting velocity from a given week (e.g., week 1 5 0.82 m$s21). The dotted traditional percentage-based methods
line indicates the set termination velocity (e.g., week 1 5 0.66 m$s21). Note (e.g., the provision of feedback), or it
that the velocity loss threshold reduces across the macrocycle (emphasized can be used to autoregulate the training
by the arrows) despite the threshold not changing. This allows for increased volume and intensity for each athlete.
intensity but reduced volumes across time. From this review, it is advised that:
17
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Applying Velocity-Based Training
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