The Performance Sciences Approach to Athletic Enhancement

Loren Z.F. Chiu, PhD, CSCSNeuromusculoskeletal Mechanics Research Program

University of Alberta

What is Performance Sciences?

Integration of disciplines

Anatomy

Biomechanics

Physiology

Application of scientific reasoning and knowledge to enhance performance

Performance Sciences Program

Anthropometric, biomechanical and physiological assessments of physical fitness

Strength and conditioning training to enhance physical fitness

Practice drives innovation

Why Strength & Conditioning?

Develop muscular fitness

Enhance neuromuscular coordination

Modulate range of motion

Address anatomical limitations

Approaches to Strength & Conditioning

Bodybuilding

Rehabilitation/physiotherapy Evidence-based

Scientific Theory-based

Vertical Jump

Range of motion

Maximum strength

Explosive strength Neuromuscular coordination

Range of Motion

Range of Motion

Ankle dorsiflexion Achilles tendon flexibility? Excess calcaneal motion

Hip extension Psoas major Rectus femoris

Hip internal & external rotation Piriformis Gluteus medius/Gluteus minimis/Tensor fascia latae Adductors Iliofemoral ligament

Maximum Strength

1” increase in VJ = 20% increase muscular strength

Baseline strength

5 RM Squat = 60% body mass

E.G. BM: 68kg, 5 RM = 41kg

Increased squat strength

20% - 49kg/5 (1” increase VJ)

40% - 58kg/5 (2” increase VJ)

60% - 66kg/5 (3” increase VJ)

Explosive Strength

Intra-muscular coordination

Motor unit recruitment (heavy resistance)

Motor unit firing frequency (rate of force development)

Inter-muscular coordination

Untrained – proximal-to-distal activation Hip extensors knee extensors ankle plantar-flexors

Trained – simultaneous activation Rapid transition from eccentric to concentric