The impact of the relations between the explosive power of the lower limbs measured by a force-velocity test versus field tests (horizontal jump, speed test and agility test) in young North African volleyball players.

Abstract

Abstract Background: In youth volleyball players, no previous study has investigated the relationships between the components of the force-velocity test (FVt) and those of the horizontal jump approach, speed test, and agility test. We aimed to determine the relationships that exist between lower-body power measured via a laboratory test (ie; FVt) and some field tests [horizontal jump (ie; 5-jump test, speed test (ie; 20-m sprint) and agility test (ie; pro-agility shuttle)] in youth volleyball players. Methods: Thirty-one youth volleyball players were investigated for changing of direction (pro-agility shuttle), 5-jump test, and absolute/relative peak leg power (Ppeak) during the FVt. Speeds (s) during a 20-m sprint were measured at 5, 10, and 20 m (T5, T10 and T20, respectively). 5-jump test performance was expressed in absolute terms (5JTA, m), and relative to leg length (5JTLL) and body mass (5JTBM). Results: This study identified i) “high” correlations between FVtPpeak (W) and 20-m sprint [T5 (r=-0.858), T10 (r=-0.707), and T20 (r=-0.762)], and pro-agility shuttle (r=-0.745), ii) “good” correlations between FVtPpeak (W.kg) and 5JTA(r=0.531), and iii) “fair” correlations between FVtPpeak (W) and 5JTA(r=0.499),between FVtPpeak (W.kg-0.67) and 5JTA (r=0.489), and 20-m sprint [T5(r=-0.370), T10(r=-0.364)]. Conclusions: Tthe pro-agility shuttle, 20-m sprint, and 5JT can be used to evaluate lower limb explosive power in youth volleyball players.