Methods of evaluating the force-velocity profile through the vertical jump in athletes: A systematic review

Introduction: In the world of sport, the ability of humans to develop maximum muscular power (Pmax) is directly related to performance and sporting success. For this, the measurement of the force- velocity profile (F-v) plays a key role in the evaluation of the athlete. At present, there are different methodologies and technologies to assess this profile, with sprint and vertical jump being the most used forms. The objective of this review is to identify and analyze different methods and tools for assessing F-v profile through the vertical jump. Methods: A search was carried out on the following databases, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science, of papers published between January 2010 and August 2017. The search terms were as follows: strength, speed, profile, vertical jump, squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), sports, strength training, resistance training, and all possible combinations of the above. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Nine out of a total of 254 articles met the criteria for inclusion: six of them evaluated the F-v profile using a force platform, while three used the photocell system. Analysis of their evaluation methods revealed that of the six studies using the force platform, one used the SJ as an assessment measure, two used the CMJ and three used both methods; all three studies using the photocell system used the SJ as the method of assessment. Conclusion: The instruments most often used to evaluate the F-v profile are the force platform and the photocell system. Nevertheless, other new and interesting technologies exist that are capable of evaluating the vertical jump. for example, through mobile applications.