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MUSCLE POWER DIFFERS IN YOUNG AND OLD SUBJECTS BUT DOES NOT VARY SUBSTANTIALLY ACROSS A BROAD RANGE OF FORCE OUTPUTS IN THE LEG AND CHEST PRESS

Abstract

Rebecca Maasen & Taylor J. Marcell

Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas

Muscle power is considered the rate of force development and is known to vary with the velocity of movement. The problem is different studies have reported a wide-range of power outputs. Purpose: the purpose of this study was to measure the optimal load (weight) to determine muscle power in both the upper- and lower-body. Methods: Thirty-six college-aged subjects (18 men and 18 women) and eight older adults (4 men and 4 women) participated in the measurement of lower-body one repetition maximal (1-RM) strength using a pneumatic leg press exercise and then upper-body strength using a pneumatic bi-lateral chest press exercise (A420, Keiser Sport, Fresno, CA). After a short rest (3-5 min) lower and upper body power was assessed by performing 6 repetitions at 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, and 70% of the measured 1-RM strength in random order. Results: Peak power (mean ± SD) for the leg press and the chest press varied across the forces measured and were greater in the younger than older adults. One-way ANOVA with post-hoc analysis demonstrated there were no significant differences in power measured between 40% to 70% for either the leg or chest press. Discussion: The most important finding of this study was that peak power does not vary considerably over a broad range of force outputs suggesting that as load increases the body compensates to maintain maximal power outputs. Power output declines substantially with age and is an important aspect of physical function and the completion of daily activities such as negotiating stairs.

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