Power up: Comparing PAPE responses in free-weight vs. flywheel resistance training systems

Abstract

Background: Post-activation potentiation enhancement (PAPE) is a physiological phenomenon that results in an acute improvement in muscular performance following a resistance training protocol, whose effects have been widely studied. However, due to methodological challenges in matching training stimuli, the results comparing the PAPE effect of strength training with flywheel or free-weight systems show inconsistencies in the literature. Since mean-propulsive velocity (MPV) is the most used parameter for monitoring free-weight intensity in real time, the aim of the study was to analyze the PAPE effect of a resistance training bout using free-weight and flywheel devices, matching intensities through MPV. Methods: Thirty physically active subjects participated in this crossover study, which aimed to compare the PAPE effect between a three-set, six-repetition halfsquat exercise with free-weight and flywheel devices. Training intensity was matched in both groups through MPV. Vertical jump and sprint tests were conducted pre- and 4 min post-intervention. Results: There was no group x time interaction for the jump and sprint (p > 0.05). Vertical jump decreased post-exercise (p < 0.001). Conclusions: When training intensity in free-weight and flywheel devices is matched through MPV, the acute performance alterations will be similarly matched, with no PAPE benefits observed at least 4 min post-exercise.